KANKAKEE – The Tickborn Heartland Virus has been reported in Illinois for the first time since it was reported here in 2018.
The Illinois Department of Public Health reported finding the virus in an older person residing in Jackson County. Health officials report the virus is likely spread by the Lone Star tick. Since 2009, under 100 cases have been reported in the Midwest and Southern United States.
“As people continue to enjoy summer activities like hiking and camping, it is important to take precautions against ticks,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Remember to wear insect repellent when in tick habitats and check for ticks immediately afterwards.”
During the reported 2018 case, the unidentified Kankakee patient reported multiple tick bites while camping on private property. They were later hospitalized with fever, headache, myalgia, nausea, diarrhea, and a diffuse maculopapular rash.
