CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Iowa has reported its first case of Heartland virus, spread through the lone star tick.

The Iowa Department of Public Health announced its first-ever report of a patient contracting Heartland virus, which is spread through ticks.

Heartland virus was first discovered in Missouri in 2009 and since then, cases have spread across the Midwest, according to IDPH. The virus is transmitted through the Lone Star tick, which is aggressive and is distinguished by a white spot or “lone star” on its back. They’re most common in early spring through late fall, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

People with the Heartland virus may feel fatigued, nauseous, feverish or experience diarrhea, according to IDPH. Some patients with the virus are hospitalized, though very few die from it, according to the CDC.

In Iowa, the person who caught the virus is an older adult between 61-80 years old in Appanoose County.

IDPH also announced it has received its first report of West Nile virus this year. The patient is an adult between 18 to 40 years old who is from Polk County. Less than 1 percent of people infected become seriously ill or die from West Nile virus. It is spread through mosquitoes.

“These reports are an important reminder that as Iowans take advantage of outdoor activities, they should take precautions to prevent tick and mosquito bites,” said IDPH Deputy State Epidemiologist and Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Ann Garvey.

Recommendations from IDPH:

• Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

• Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes, and socks whenever possible outdoors.

• Eliminate standing water around the home because that’s where mosquitoes lay eggs.

• Stay on trails when walking or hiking and avoid high grass.

• After each day spent in tick-infested areas, check yourself, your children and your pets for ticks.