Sandfly fever

Sandfly fever, also known as Pappataci fever or Phlebotomus fever, is a disease caused by phleboviruses that are transmitted by sandflies.

Causes

The disease is caused by various species of the genus Phlebovirus in the family Bunyaviridae. The viruses are transmitted by the bite of infected female sandflies of the genus Phlebotomus in the Old World and Lutzomyia in the New World.

Symptoms

The symptoms of sandfly fever include fever, headache, eye pain, muscle and joint pain, and enlarged spleen and lymph nodes. The symptoms usually last for 3 to 6 days.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of sandfly fever is based on the clinical symptoms and can be confirmed by laboratory tests such as serology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for sandfly fever. The treatment is supportive and includes rest, fluids, and pain relievers.

Prevention

Prevention of sandfly fever includes avoiding sandfly bites by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and staying indoors during peak sandfly activity.

See also

• Leishmaniasis
• Phlebotominae
• Phlebotomus