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Arboviruses in the Iberian Peninsula
1Centre for Zoonoses Research, National Institute of Health, Aguas de Moura, and National School of Public Health, Lisbon, Portugal.
Abstract:
The information concerning the presence and activity of arboviruses in the Iberian Peninsula is very scanty. In Portugal serological studies have been done with sera from animals, wild birds and human population. The results have shown that some arboviruses have been active in some areas of the territory. West Nile (WN) virus was isolated from mosquitoes and Dhori and Thogoto viruses have been isolated from ticks. In Spain, in spite of the large territory, it's geographical contiguity to Africa and the existence of different kinds of climates and ecologic conditions, the information is reduced to some surveys done in some restricted regions of the country. In both countries African swine fever was frequent and recently African horsesickness has been introduced to Southern Spain. A straight liaison and cooperation among virology laboratories of both countries and also Morocco should be emphasized in order to establish epidemiological surveillance in Southern Europe.
Insights
Arbovirus activity in the Iberian Peninsula is poorly understood. Studies in Portugal and Spain reveal the presence of West Nile virus and other arboviruses, necessitating enhanced surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Epidemiology
- Arthropod-borne Viruses
Background:
- Limited data exists on arbovirus presence and activity in the Iberian Peninsula.
- Portugal and Spain have documented arbovirus activity through serological studies and virus isolations.
- Cooperation is needed to enhance epidemiological surveillance in Southern Europe.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current knowledge on arbovirus activity in the Iberian Peninsula.
- To highlight the need for increased cooperation and surveillance among virology laboratories in Portugal, Spain, and Morocco.
Main Methods:
- Serological studies on animal, wild bird, and human populations.
- Virus isolation from mosquitoes and ticks.
- Review of existing data on arbovirus and other relevant viral diseases.
Main Results:
- Arboviruses have been detected in various regions of Portugal and Spain.
- West Nile virus was isolated from mosquitoes.
- Dhori and Thogoto viruses were isolated from ticks.
- African swine fever is endemic, and African horsesickness has been introduced to Spain.
Conclusions:
- There is a significant need for enhanced epidemiological surveillance of arboviruses in the Iberian Peninsula.
- Cross-border collaboration between Portugal, Spain, and Morocco is crucial for effective surveillance and control efforts.