Arboviruses, also known as arthropod-borne viruses, refer to a diverse group of viruses that are transmitted via mosquitos, ticks, or sandflies. This group of viruses belongs to the families Togaviridae, Flaviviridae, Bunyaviridae, and Reoviridae. These families have similar RNA genomes that permit mutations that allow them to acclimate to changing environments or host conditions. These viruses are unique as they require vectors for biological transmission to humans. It is important to understand the disease processes caused by these infectious agents, given the increasing frequency of infection and the potential for additional emerging diseases.
Arboviruses can cause multiple neurological diseases, including myelitis, neuritis, myositis, meningitis, and encephalitis. Mortality rates related to these infections increase with the diagnosis of encephalitis. Thus arboviruses are important differentials to consider when evaluating a febrile patient with neurological symptoms. Although arboviruses can cause a wide range of infections, this article will cover major features of the more common arthropod-borne neurotropic viruses that cause endemic and travel-associated encephalitis.
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