Infectious Disease: Mosquito-Borne Viral Illnesses

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Travel Medicine

Background:

• Globalization and travel increase the risk of mosquito-borne viral infections in the US.
• Key infections include Zika virus, Dengue, Chikungunya, Yellow Fever, and Encephalitis viruses.
• These diseases pose risks ranging from mild symptoms to severe fetal anomalies, hemorrhagic fever, hepatic failure, and neuroinvasive disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To inform family physicians about the growing threat of mosquito-borne viral infections.
• To highlight the diverse clinical presentations and potential complications of these diseases.
• To emphasize the importance of prevention strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on mosquito-borne viral infections.
• Discussion of epidemiology, transmission, clinical features, and prevention.

Main Results:

• Zika virus poses risks to pregnant women due to potential fetal anomalies.
• Dengue and Chikungunya can cause severe illness, including hemorrhagic fever and chronic rheumatism.
• Encephalitis viruses, like West Nile, can lead to neuroinvasive disease, particularly in older adults.

Conclusions:

• Mosquito-borne viral infections are an increasing public health concern requiring physician awareness.
• Effective prevention relies on insect avoidance, mosquito control, and personal protective measures.
• Vaccines are available for Yellow Fever and Japanese Encephalitis, but not all mosquito-borne diseases.