Viruses transmitted by sandflies in Italy

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Medical Entomology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Italy has reported the isolation of five distinct phlebotomus-transmitted viruses.
• Four of these viruses belong to the Bunyaviridae family (Phlebovirus genus), including Sandfly fever Sicilian virus, Sandfly fever Naples virus, Toscana virus, and Arbia virus.
• The fifth virus, Radi virus, belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family (Vesiculovirus genus).

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the phlebotomus-transmitted viruses identified in Italy.
• To discuss the epidemiological circulation and natural ecological cycles of these viruses.
• To provide insights into the transmission dynamics of phleboviruses and vesiculoviruses in Italy.

Main Methods:

• Isolation of viruses from vectors (Phlebotomus species) and human cases.
• Serological investigations to understand host immune responses and past exposures.
• Ecological studies to determine vector distribution and virus-host interactions.

Main Results:

• Sandfly fever Sicilian and Naples viruses were isolated from individuals during World War II.
• Toscana and Arbia viruses were more recently isolated from Phlebotomus perniciosus and P. perfiliewi.
• Radi virus was identified in Italy from P. perfiliewi, representing the only Rhabdoviridae family member identified in this context.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights the presence of diverse phlebotomus-transmitted viruses in Italy.
• Understanding the circulation and ecological cycles is crucial for public health.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the public health implications of these viruses.