Learning About Bourbon Virus

Bourbon virus is a rare disease caused by a bite from an infected tick. Cases have been found in the Midwestern, East Coast, and Southern regions of the United States. The virus was first found in 2014 in Bourbon County, Kansas.

People get bourbon virus after they are bitten by an infected tick. The virus has been found in the lone star tick, which lives throughout the Midwestern, Southern, and Eastern United States.

Symptoms may include:

• A fever.
• Fatigue.
• A rash.
• A headache.
• Body aches.
• Nausea and vomiting.

Your doctor will ask questions about your potential exposure to ticks. They’ll also ask about any symptoms you might have.

The doctor will order tests to confirm the diagnosis. Some tests may include a blood test. Having lower than normal counts of white blood cells and platelets can be a sign of the virus.

There are no medicines available for treatment.

Symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter medicines or pain relievers. Some people may be treated in the hospital with intravenous (I.V.) fluids. In the hospital, people also may be treated for pain and fever.

The best way to prevent it is to avoid ticks. Here are some ways to do that.

• Try to avoid grassy, wooded, and brushy areas.
• Wear long pants, long sleeves, and long socks to protect your skin.
• Wear lighter colors so that ticks are easier to spot.
• Use insect repellents registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• Treat clothing and gear with repellents designed for that purpose.

• Check clothing, gear, and pets for ticks.
• Shower soon after coming indoors.
• Do a full-body check for ticks. Check:
  • Under the arms.
  • In and around the ears.
  • Inside the belly button.
  • Behind the knees.
  • In and around hair and body hair.
  • Between the legs.
  • Around the waist.
• Remove attached ticks as soon as possible.