The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has detected Heartland Virus (HRTV) and Bourbon Virus (BRBV) in tick collections. Tick testing began in 2024. An HRTV-positive cluster was detected in Richardson County in 2025, and HRTV- and BRBV-positive clusters were detected in Sarpy County in 2026. Both viruses are spread by the bite of Lone Star ticks and can cause fever and serious illness in humans, although infections are uncommon. Residents are advised to take precautions outdoors to reduce their risk.
