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Studies on the epidemiology of sandfly fever in Iran. I. Virus isolates obtained from Phlebotomus
Abstract:
A total of 62 virus isolates was obtained from 12,485 male and female sandflies (predominately Phlebotomus papatasi) collected in a village in central Iran during the summer of 1975. The overall virus isolation rate from female sandflies was 1 per 177 insects processed. Of the 62 virus strains obtained, 49 were identified as Sicilian virus, 11 as Karimabad, and 2 as a new member of the vesicular stomatitis serogroup. One isolate each of Sicilian and Karimabad virus was made from pools of male sandflies. The three virus types were active in the sandfly population simultaneously. Sicilian virus isolation rates showed little variation during the study period, suggesting continuous virus activity during the sandfly season. The implications of these findings for the epidemiology of sandfly fever are discussed.
Insights
Researchers isolated 62 viruses from sandflies in Iran, identifying Sicilian virus, Karimabad virus, and a new vesicular stomatitis serogroup member. This indicates simultaneous virus activity in sandfly populations, impacting sandfly fever epidemiology.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Sandfly fever is a significant public health concern in endemic regions.
- Understanding the ecology of arboviruses transmitted by sandflies is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and diversity of viruses in sandfly populations in central Iran.
- To assess the potential role of different sandfly species in virus transmission.
Main Methods:
- Collection of sandflies (Phlebotomus papatasi) in central Iran during summer 1975.
- Virus isolation and identification from sandfly pools.
- Analysis of virus isolation rates and seasonal activity.
Main Results:
- 62 virus isolates were obtained from 12,485 sandflies.
- 49 isolates were Sicilian virus, 11 were Karimabad virus, and 2 were a new vesicular stomatitis serogroup member.
- Simultaneous activity of three virus types was observed in the sandfly population, with Sicilian virus showing continuous activity.
Conclusions:
- Sandflies, particularly Phlebotomus papatasi, harbor and potentially transmit multiple arboviruses.
- The findings suggest a complex epidemiology of sandfly fever with continuous circulation of Sicilian virus.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the transmission dynamics and public health implications of these viruses.