Scientists identify new tick-borne virus ALTNV

Researchers from Beijing's State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity have identified a novel virus transmitted by the Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis). The pathogen, named the Asian longhorned tick nairovirus (ALTNV), was discovered after scientists screened 3,163 individuals exhibiting symptoms of the known Dabie bandavirus (DBV). While many patients tested positive for DBV, approximately 10.4% tested negative, leading to the discovery of ALTNV through deep genome sequencing.

Symptoms of ALTNV are similar to influenza A, including sudden fever spikes, muscle aches, severe headaches, persistent fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and vomiting. Experts noted that coinfection with DBV—a virus that can have a fatality rate as high as 30%—may exacerbate the severity of the illness.

Because ALTNV and DBV share the same tick vector and circulate in the same regions, researchers emphasize the urgent need for improved differential diagnosis to distinguish between the two infections. Public health experts are calling for heightened surveillance and increased medical awareness regarding febrile illnesses in patients with a history of tick bites.