New virus detected in a tick invasive to the US. Should we be concerned?
- Posted on September 12, 2026
- By The Hill
- 1 Views
- 1 min read
A newly identified virus has been detected in Haemaphysalis longicornis, an invasive tick species rapidly expanding across North American territory. Originally confirmed in the United States in 2017, this tick population has successfully colonized more than twenty states, raising concerns among public health officials and epidemiologists. The discovery of this pathogenic virus highlights potential risks for disease transmission to human populations and wildlife. Understanding the geographic spread and viral characteristics is crucial for developing effective surveillance and prevention strategies in affected regions.
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