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Arthropod-borne encephalitides in the Americas
Abstract:
The arthropod-borne encephalitides are an important cause of equine and human morbidity in the Americas. Between 1975 and 1978, 6970 human cases of arboviral encephalitis were reported in the United States of America; however, this represents only a fraction of the true incidence. St Louis encephalitis (4824 cases), California encephalitis (1035 cases), and western equine encephalitis (WEE, 947 cases) accounted for 98.5% of all reported infections. Approximately 1000-4000 cases of equine encephalitis occur annually in the United States, the majority due to WEE. In tropical America, important outbreaks of Venezuelan, eastern, and western equine encephalitis, and of Rocio encephalitis have occurred.In this article, epidemiological aspects of arboviral encephalitis outbreaks occurring within the past 5 years are reviewed. In addition, summaries of current research activities on the ecology and epidemiology of St Louis, western equine, Venezuelan equine, Rocio, and California encephalitis viruses are presented, and the problem of control of these infections is discussed.
Insights
Arthropod-borne encephalitides, including St Louis encephalitis and western equine encephalitis (WEE), significantly impact human and equine health in the Americas. This review covers recent outbreaks, research, and control strategies for these viral infections.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Arthropod-borne encephalitides pose a significant threat to both human and equine populations in the Americas.
- Reported cases in the US (1975-1978) represent an underestimation of the true incidence of arboviral encephalitis.
- Key viruses include St Louis encephalitis, California encephalitis, and western equine encephalitis (WEE).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review epidemiological aspects of arboviral encephalitis outbreaks in the past five years.
- To summarize current research on the ecology and epidemiology of major encephalitis viruses.
- To discuss control strategies for these significant infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on arboviral encephalitis outbreaks.
- Summaries of ongoing research into viral ecology and epidemiology.
- Discussion of infection control measures.
Main Results:
- St Louis encephalitis, California encephalitis, and WEE accounted for 98.5% of reported US human cases between 1975-1978.
- Annual equine encephalitis cases in the US range from 1000-4000, primarily due to WEE.
- Significant outbreaks of Venezuelan, eastern, western equine encephalitis, and Rocio encephalitis have occurred in tropical America.
Conclusions:
- Arboviral encephalitides remain a critical public health concern in the Americas.
- Continued research into viral ecology and epidemiology is essential for effective control.
- Integrated control strategies are necessary to mitigate the impact of these diseases.