An exotic and invasive tick species that was found in New Jersey has now been spotted in Virginia.

The Longhorned Tick had never been seen in the U.S. until it was discovered last month in Hunterdon and Middlesex counties.

According to environmental officials, there is no direct link from New Jersey to the Virginia farm where the ticks appeared.

The concern is that the reach of the species is spreading.

Health officials say the tick can carry a potentially deadly virus called SFTS.