Heartland Virus Disease-An Underreported Emerging Infection.

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Heartland virus disease (Heartland) is a tickborne infection caused by Heartland virus (HRTV).
• Transmitted primarily by the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum), symptoms include fever, fatigue, and hematological abnormalities.
• First identified 15 years ago, the full scope of HRTV and Heartland disease remains incompletely understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively characterize Heartland virus disease (HRTV) by reviewing existing peer-reviewed literature.
• To highlight the underestimation of HRTV infections and the potential for expanded geographic range.
• To provide recommendations for clinical diagnosis and management of Heartland virus disease.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of peer-reviewed literature concerning Heartland virus (HRTV) and Heartland disease.
• Analysis of reported symptoms, transmission vectors, and geographic distribution.
• Evaluation of factors contributing to underdiagnosis and disease proliferation.

Main Results:

• Heartland virus disease presents with symptoms such as fever, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.
• Infection underestimation is likely due to a lack of targeted surveillance and investigations.
• The geographic range of HRTV is potentially underestimated and expanding due to climate change.

Conclusions:

• Heartland virus disease should be considered in tick-exposed patients in endemic areas.
• Early HRTV testing is recommended for patients with compatible symptoms unresponsive to initial treatment.
• Prompt diagnosis and supportive care are critical, as sepsis progression carries a poor prognosis.