The first confirmed case of Bourbon virus, a rare and potentially fatal tick-borne illness, has been identified in New York, according to health officials. The virus was contracted by a 67-year-old Suffolk County man who was bitten by lone star ticks while working outdoors.
Bourbon virus has no vaccine, commercial test, or specific treatment. Its symptoms can mimic those of other tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. The patient, Michael Larkin, experienced a rash, fever, night sweats, and severe headaches. He was initially treated with antibiotics for Lyme disease, which allowed the Bourbon virus to progress.
Larkin was hospitalized for five days and has since made a full recovery. However, the virus has proven fatal in other confirmed cases, which have been rare and primarily documented in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.
Dr. Luis Marcos, who treated Larkin, expressed concern that this case might be indicative of a larger, undiagnosed presence of the virus in the region. "The Bourbon virus is likely more prevalent than we think in our region and other cases are likely not being diagnosed," Marcos stated.
Bourbon virus is transmitted by the lone star tick, identifiable by a white spot on its back. These ticks are prevalent in the eastern and central United States and are often found in wooded areas, tall grass, and brush. Their spread is closely linked to the increasing population of white-tailed deer, which inhabit areas close to humans. Factors such as milder winters and longer warm seasons contribute to ticks being active for extended periods and expanding their geographic range.
Lone star ticks can also transmit other conditions, including alpha-gal syndrome, which causes an allergy to red meat and dairy, and ehrlichiosis, a bacterial infection with flu-like symptoms.
Marcos and his team emphasized the need for enhanced surveillance, improved diagnostic testing, and clearer guidance for medical professionals to identify and manage Bourbon virus cases. Without accurate diagnosis, developing effective treatments remains a significant challenge.
To reduce the risk of tick bites, health authorities recommend avoiding grassy, brushy, and wooded areas, staying on the center of trails, and using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET or treating clothing with permethrin.