Arboviruses in South Africa, known and unknown

Abstract

The emergence of novel arboviruses of zoonotic potential in South Africa (SA) threatens human health and animal welfare, and affects economic growth and development. These viruses cause severe infections in animals and humans, including neurological diseases, such as encephalitis, resulting in high morbidities, mortalities and economic losses. With increasing reports of Middelburg, Shuni, Sindbis, West Nile and Wesselsbron virus infections in animals and humans in SA, this article reviews and discusses known and currently emerging arboviruses in the country. These reports underscore the need for increased surveillance, vector control management, public health preparedness, focused research, community awareness programs, and the development of rapid and sensitive diagnostic approaches. Furthermore, appropriate medical personnel training and strengthening initiatives for a one-health approach are required to understand and mitigate the emerging arboviral threat to public health.