New tick-borne virus identified in China causes flu-like symptoms

17:10

By: Azzat Manal

New tick-borne virus identified in China causes flu-like symptoms

Chinese researchers have identified a previously unknown tick-borne virus that can cause flu-like symptoms, fatigue and gastrointestinal problems, adding to growing scientific attention on diseases transmitted by ticks.

The virus, known as Asian Longhorned Tick Nairovirus (ALTNV), belongs to the Orthonairovirus group. Researchers found that infections can be associated with thrombocytopenia, a reduction in blood platelet levels, as well as laboratory signs indicating liver inflammation or injury.

The discovery emerged from years of monitoring patients in China who developed unusual illnesses after exposure to ticks. Since 2009, researchers have investigated cases of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), a potentially serious disease transmitted by ticks and associated with another virus known as Dabie bandavirus (DBV).

While a number of patients were found to have DBV infections, researchers noticed that some cases could not be fully explained by the virus. Further laboratory analysis of blood samples and viral genetic material eventually led to the identification of ALTNV, which was found to be genetically distinct from DBV.

Researchers from Beijing’s State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity detected ALTNV in 10.4% of a group of 3,163 patients who had reported tick exposure. The findings also indicated that patients infected with both ALTNV and DBV faced a higher risk of respiratory complications and kidney problems. Seven patients in the study died, although the researchers did not attribute the fatalities to ALTNV alone because the affected individuals were also infected with DBV.

The researchers stressed that the presence of both viruses in the same regions, and their association with the same tick vector, makes accurate diagnosis particularly important. Distinguishing between different tick-borne infections can help doctors provide appropriate treatment and monitor patients who may be at greater risk of complications.

ALTNV infections can initially resemble common influenza, with symptoms including fever, muscle aches, tiredness and, in some cases, respiratory problems. The overlap between symptoms can make laboratory testing important, particularly in areas where several tick-borne diseases circulate.

There is currently no specific antiviral treatment established for ALTNV. Medical care is generally focused on supporting patients and managing their symptoms while monitoring for complications. Health experts also stress the importance of avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, as these medicines target bacterial infections and do not treat viral diseases.

Preventing tick bites remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of infection. Health specialists recommend wearing long clothing when visiting areas where ticks may be present, keeping trousers tucked into socks and using appropriate insect repellents. People should also check their skin and clothing after spending time outdoors and remove ticks promptly, as prolonged attachment can increase the likelihood of disease transmission.

The identification of ALTNV highlights the continuing need for surveillance of tick-borne diseases, particularly as researchers seek to understand how previously undetected viruses circulate among humans and their animal or tick hosts.