Flavivirus is a genus of viruses in the Flaviviridae family, known for being transmitted primarily through arthropod vectors like mosquitoes and ticks, and includes significant human pathogens such as dengue virus, Zika virus, and West Nile virus. These viruses are characterized by their single-stranded RNA genome and their ability to cause widespread outbreaks and severe diseases in humans and animals.

Flavivirus

Genus of viruses

Flaviviridae family

Arthropod vectors are organisms such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas that transmit pathogens to humans and animals, playing a crucial role in the spread of diseases like malaria, Lyme disease, and dengue fever. Understanding their biology, ecology, and interactions with pathogens is essential for developing effective control strategies to reduce the incidence of vector-borne diseases.

Arthropod Vectors

Transmitted primarily through arthropod vectors

Mosquitoes

Ticks

Human pathogens

Dengue virus

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, known for causing mild symptoms in most individuals but potentially leading to severe birth defects in newborns if contracted by pregnant women. Outbreaks have occurred in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific, prompting significant public health responses due to its association with microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Zika Virus

West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause severe neurological diseases in humans, although most infections are asymptomatic. It is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, with birds serving as the main reservoir hosts.

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