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Scientists hunt for new tick-borne viruses

04:46
Researchers at Washington University are testing ticks from Tyson Research Center in Eureka, Missouri, like those shown here, for known tick-borne viruses and possible new variations. (David Kovaluk/St. Louis Public Radio 
Researchers at Washington University are testing ticks from Tyson Research Center in Eureka, Missouri, like those shown here, for known tick-borne viruses and possible new variations. (David Kovaluk/St. Louis Public Radio 

Several deadly new tick-borne viruses have emerged in the Midwest in the past decade. But scientists say these are likely just the tip of the iceberg.

With climate change expanding tick ranges and their seasonal activity periods in the U.S., more viruses are expected to emerge in the coming years.

Shahla Farzan of St. Louis Public Radio reports.

This segment aired on December 7, 2021.

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