Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) are a group of viruses that are transmitted to humans and other animals through the bites of arthropods, primarily mosquitoes and ticks. Arboviruses can cause a wide range of diseases, including dengue fever, Zika virus disease, West Nile fever, yellow fever, and chikungunya, among others.
Arthropods, such as mosquitoes and ticks, act as vectors for these viruses, meaning they can become infected with the virus by feeding on an infected host, and then transmit the virus to a new host through subsequent blood meals. The viruses can replicate and multiply within the arthropod's body without causing harm to the vector itself.
When an infected arthropod bites a human or animal, it injects the virus into the bloodstream, leading to potential infection. Once inside the new host, the arbovirus can target various tissues, organs, or cells, causing a range of symptoms, from mild flu-like illness to severe and potentiallyfatal diseases, depending on the specific virus.
Arbovirus infections are typically characterized by acute onset, with symptoms that may include fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and fatigue. In severe cases, complications can arise, such as encephalitis, hemorrhagic fever, or organ failure, which may require hospitalization and intensive care.
Preventing arthropod-borne viral infections often involves implementing measures to control arthropod vectors, such as eliminating breeding sites, using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and employing insecticide-treated bed nets. Vaccines are available for some arboviral diseases, such as yellow fever, but for others, there are currently no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines, making prevention and control of vector populations
