Emerging mosquito-borne bunyaviruses in Canada

Area of Science:

• Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses)
• Viral zoonoses
• Neuroinvasive diseases

Background:

• California serogroup and Cache Valley viruses are Orthobunyavirus genus members.
• These arboviruses are transmitted by ticks and mosquitoes across North America.
• While often asymptomatic, infections can lead to febrile and neurological illnesses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significance of California serogroup and Cache Valley viruses.
• To emphasize their role in febrile and neuroinvasive diseases.
• To promote diagnostic consideration during mosquito season.

Main Methods:

• Review of arbovirus distribution and clinical manifestations.
• Identification of common viral strains in Canada (Jamestown Canyon, snowshoe hare viruses).
• Recommendation for diagnostic panel testing.

Main Results:

• California serogroup and Cache Valley viruses are prevalent in North America.
• Jamestown Canyon and snowshoe hare viruses are common in Canada.
• These viruses may be underdiagnosed causes of illness.

Conclusions:

• California serogroup and Cache Valley viruses pose a potential public health threat.
• Consideration in differential diagnosis for neuroinvasive disease is recommended.
• Public education and personal protective measures are vital for prevention.