China reports new tick-borne virus ALTNV linked to flu-like illness

Beijing researchers identify ALTNV, a newly discovered tick-borne nairovirus in China, which can cause flu-like symptoms, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues and reduced platelets. In a study of 3,163 tick-bitten patients, ALTNV appeared in about 10% and co-infection with Dabie bandavirus (DBV) was associated with respiratory and kidney problems, with 7 deaths among those co-infected. There is no specific antiviral treatment for ALTNV, so care is supportive and tick-bite prevention is critical. ALTNV has not been reported in the U.S., and the findings in the New England Journal of Medicine underscore the need for differential diagnosis in regions where tick-borne diseases are endemic.