Health Officials Warn on Tick Bites and Rare Virus Risks

WHO:

IJR - Michael Larkin, a 67-year-old father of three from Long Island, is the first known case of Bourbon virus in New York.

Wichita Eagle - Luis Marcos, director of the Tick-borne Disease Clinic at Stony Brook University, commented on the case.

WHAT:

IJR - New York has confirmed its first known case of Bourbon virus, a rare tick-borne illness.

Wichita Eagle - Bourbon virus was first identified in Kansas in 2014 and is spread by lone star ticks.

Wichita Eagle - Symptoms of Bourbon virus include fever, fatigue, rash, headaches, body aches, nausea, and vomiting.

Wichita Eagle - There are currently no specific treatments or vaccines for Bourbon virus.

WHERE:

IJR - The case occurred in Long Island, New York.

Wichita Eagle - Bourbon virus was first discovered in Bourbon County, Kansas.

WHEN:

Wichita Eagle - Michael Larkin was bitten by a tick while in his backyard in 2021.

Wichita Eagle - The Bourbon virus was first identified in Kansas in 2014.

Wichita Eagle - A man between the ages of 55 to 64 died from Bourbon virus in 2024.

WHY:

Wichita Eagle - The Bourbon virus is spread through infected lone star ticks, which are known to cause alpha-gal syndrome.

HOW:

Wichita Eagle - Health officials recommend preventing tick bites by using insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, avoiding bushy or wooded areas, and checking for ticks after outdoor activities.

Wichita Eagle - If a tick is found attached to the skin, it should be removed as soon as possible, and symptoms should be monitored.

(UPDATED August 4, 2026 10:40 UTC)

New York has confirmed its first known case of Bourbon virus, a rare tick-borne illness, involving a 67-year-old father of three from Long Island named Michael Larkin. The virus, first identified in Kansas in 2014 and spread by lone star ticks, can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and nausea, but there are currently no specific treatments or vaccines available. Health officials advise taking precautions against tick bites, including using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves, while also recommending that any attached ticks be removed promptly and symptoms closely monitored.