Rare Tick-Borne Virus Case in New York Sparks Diagnostic Concerns

A recent tick bite in New York exposed a diagnostic issue after a patient was treated for Lyme disease, but was actually infected with the Bourbon virus. This rare tick-borne illness has no vaccine or cure. The case marks the first known Bourbon virus infection in New York State, specifically on Long Island. Detailed findings were published in the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene.

Dr. Suraj Saggar, chief of Infectious Disease at Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, New Jersey, shared insights with Newsweek about the spread of tick-borne diseases. As the climate changes, ticks are moving into new regions of the country.

“Areas that historically experienced longer, colder winters or significant snow cover are now more hospitable to ticks,” Saggar explained. “As temperatures rise and precipitation patterns change, ticks are able to spread northward and thrive in new ecosystems.”

A Diagnosis That Didn’t Add Up

The study’s authors noted that the patient was first diagnosed with Lyme disease and prescribed doxycycline. Despite treatment, symptoms like fatigue and severe headaches persisted. Researcher Luis Marcos from the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University explained the situation.

“This one case certainly was the Bourbon virus, and over a one-month period antibody titers increased eightfold,” Marcos stated. “The patient showed some very severe symptoms and was hospitalized.”

Early symptoms of Bourbon virus are similar to Lyme disease, leading to the initial misdiagnosis. There is no commercial test for Bourbon virus, so suspected cases in New York require specialized testing at the state health department.

How the Case Was Found

The discovery emerged from a study of 107 individuals in Suffolk County, New York. Participants, bitten by ticks between 2019 and 2024, exhibited fever and other symptoms. Blood samples were tested for three tick-borne viruses: Powassan, Heartland, and Bourbon.

Although none tested positive for Powassan virus, two had antibodies for Bourbon virus, and one for Heartland virus. A fourfold increase in antibody levels suggested a recent or active Bourbon virus infection, highlighting the need for expanded testing and monitoring of rare viruses.

Founded in 2014, Bourbon virus is named after Bourbon County, Kansas. Though rare, and predominantly found in the central U.S., signs suggest its range is broadening. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, rash, headache, body aches, and nausea. The common lone star tick spreads this virus, raising concerns due to its link to meat allergies.

Protecting Against Tick Bites

Saggar identified the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, New England, Midwest, and West, including Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, as areas where tick-borne illnesses are prevalent. Lyme disease has seen increased incidence over the last 20 years as tick habitats have grown.

He recommended precautions such as wearing light-colored clothing, long sleeves, and long pants tucked into socks during hikes, as ticks are attracted to darker colors. Insect repellents featuring DEET and permethrin-treated clothing also provide protection.

After outdoor activities, checking for ticks on the body, particularly behind the knees, in the groin area, underarms, and the scalp, is advised. Removal should be prompt to prevent issues. Saggar mentioned that doxycycline might be prescribed in cases where ticks are believed to have attached for 48 to 72 hours as a post-exposure measure.

Reference: Bateman, V. A., et al. (2026). Evidence of Heartland and Bourbon Viruses Transmitted by Ticks in Suffolk County, New York. The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. https://doi.org/10.4269/ajtmh.26-0012.

For further information, contact Newsweek editors Kara Dolman and Sam Wilson on this story.