Heartland virus is a serious, emerging tickborne illness spread by Lone Star ticks, with most reported cases in the Midwest and Southern U.S. Unlike bacterial infections like Lyme disease, this viral illness can cause dangerously low white blood cell counts (leukopenia), leaving patients vulnerable to secondary infections and complications. In this post, we explore how Heartland virus affects the immune system, why leukopenia occurs, and what steps you can take to protect yourself from this little-known but serious threat.

Hair loss isn’t the first thing most people associate with Lyme disease—but for many patients, it’s a frustrating and emotional part of the journey. From diffuse shedding to patchy bald spots near tick bites, the mechanisms behind Lyme-related hair loss are complex and often overlooked. This guide breaks down why it happens, how co-infections and inflammation play a role, and what you can do to support regrowth—from targeted treatments to detox and nutritional support.

In a recent blog post, Lyme Advise engages the community by presenting a unique opportunity to have their pressing questions answered by Dr. Steven Bock, a renowned Integrative Lyme Specialist from Rhinebeck, New York. Dr. Bock, an ILADS founding member and current board member, brings nearly three decades of experience in treating Lyme and tick-borne diseases, making up about 75 percent of his practice. From his approach to new treatments like UVL therapy to tackling complex cases of chronic Lyme, Dr. Bock shares valuable insights, emphasizing Lyme as a clinical diagnosis and exploring various therapeutic options. This Q&A touches on everything from the potential genetic factors affecting Lyme's persistence to the safety of pregnancy in Lyme patients, offering a wealth of knowledge to both patients and practitioners.