Meningitis
May 14, 2004 10:47 AM
New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene
Bureau of Communicable Disease
Arboviral Infections (arthropod-borne encephalitis, eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, California encephalitis)
What are arboviral infections?
Arboviral (short for arthropod-borne viral) infections are caused by any of a number of viruses transmitted by arthropods, such as mosquitoes and ticks. These infections generally occur during warm weather months when mosquitoes are active. Eastern Equine Encephalitis is the arbovirus found in the Northeast. The types of mosquitoes that carry arboviruses are rarely found in New York City.
Who gets arboviral infections?
Anyone can get an arboviral infection, but young children and the elderly appear to be most susceptible.
How are arboviral infections spread?
Most arboviral infections are spread by infected mosquitoes. Fortunately, only a few types of mosquitoes are capable of transmitting the disease and only a small number of the mosquitoes are usually infected with the virus. Occasionally, migrating birds have the ability to carry viruses from one area of the country to another.
What are the symptoms of arboviral infections?
Symptoms of the various types of arboviral infections transmitted by mosquitoes are similar, but differ in severity. Most infections do not result in any symptoms. Mild cases may occur with only a slight fever and/or headache. Severe infections are marked by a rapid onset, headache, high fever, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, or death. Patients with severe infection may have long-term neurologic complications.
Does past infection with an arbovirus make a person immune?
Yes, infection with an arbovirus can provide immunity to that specific virus and perhaps to other related viruses.
How are arboviral infections diagnosed?
The diagnosis is made by demonstrating specific antibodies to the virus or isolating the virus from blood, spinal fluid, or brain tissue.
What is the treatment for arboviral infection?
The physician will usually attempt to relieve the symptoms of the illness, but there is no specific treatment for arboviral infections.
How can arboviral infections be prevented?
Insect repellents should be used when outdoors in mosquito-infested areas. Homes can be screened to prevent entry of mosquitoes. Communities or municipalities where arboviral infection of mosquitoes occurs, may need to establish a mosquito surveillance or control program to reduce mosquito populations through applying pesticides and draining swampy areas, and reducing outdoor objects which may collect water (such as tires, cans, etc.).
See St. Louis Encephalitis for more information
See also (SLE) Q&A as well
October 2000 New York City residents: For more information on arboviral infections, call 212-788-4204 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm). For people residing outside of New York City, please contact your state or local health department.
