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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
07:23
Detection of Infectious Virus from Field-collected Mosquitoes by Vero Cell Culture Assay
Published on: June 9, 2011
Everglades virus infection in man, 1975
Southern Medical Journal
|November 1, 1980
Summary
A visitor to Everglades National Park developed fever and headache after their trip. Researchers identified the cause as Everglades virus (Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis, subtype II), a mosquito-borne illness.
Area of Science:
- Arbovirology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- The Everglades National Park in south Florida is a known habitat for various mosquito species that can transmit arboviruses.
- Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis (VEE) virus is a significant public health concern in tropical and subtropical regions.
Observation:
- A 43-year-old male presented with symptoms including fever, malaise, myalgia, severe headache, pharyngitis, and lymphadenopathy within 72 hours of visiting Everglades National Park.
- The patient's clinical presentation suggested a possible arboviral infection.
Findings:
- Everglades virus (Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis, subtype II) was successfully isolated from the patient's blood sample five days post-symptom onset.
- This isolation confirms Everglades virus as the etiological agent responsible for the patient's illness.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential risk of arboviral infections, specifically Everglades virus, for visitors to endemic areas like Everglades National Park.
- Early diagnosis and identification of the causative agent are crucial for effective patient management and public health surveillance of VEEV.
- Further research into the epidemiology and transmission dynamics of Everglades virus in Florida is warranted to inform prevention strategies.
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