About Heartland

Key Points

  • Heartland virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected tick.
  • Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, decreased appetite, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and muscle or joint pain.
  • There is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat infection with Heartland virus.
  • You can reduce your risk by avoiding tick bites.
Two people walking on a trial with backpacks on.

Overview

Heartland virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected tick. Most cases have been reported from states in eastern, southeastern, and south-central United States.

Symptoms of Heartland virus include fever, fatigue (feeling tired), decreased appetite, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and muscle or joint pain.

There is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat infection with Heartland virus. You can reduce your risk of getting sick by taking steps to avoid tick bites.