Sandfly fever Naples phlebovirus

Sandfly fever Naples phlebovirus is a virus that belongs to the genus Phlebovirus and family Bunyaviridae. It is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected female sandflies (Phlebotomus species). The virus is the causative agent of a disease known as Sandfly fever, also referred to as Pappataci fever or three-day fever.

Transmission

The Sandfly fever Naples phlebovirus is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female sandflies. The sandflies become infected when they feed on the blood of an infected host, which can be a human or animal. The virus is then transmitted to a new host during subsequent blood meals.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Sandfly fever, caused by the Naples phlebovirus, typically begin within three days of being bitten by an infected sandfly. Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, severe headache, muscle pain, joint pain, and sometimes a rash. The fever typically lasts for three days, hence the name three-day fever.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Sandfly fever is based on clinical symptoms and can be confirmed by laboratory testing. This includes serology tests that detect antibodies to the virus in the patient's blood, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests that detect the virus's genetic material.

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific antiviral treatment for Sandfly fever. Treatment is supportive and includes rest, fluids, and medication to relieve symptoms such as fever and pain. Prevention involves protecting against sandfly bites, for example by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing.

Epidemiology

The Sandfly fever Naples phlebovirus is found in the Mediterranean region, including southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. It is most common in rural areas during the warm months when sandflies are most active.

See also

• Phlebotomus fever
• Bunyaviridae
• Phlebovirus