Emergence and re-emergence of mosquito-borne arboviruses

Abstract

Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) are ecologically distinct from many other pathogens because of the involvement of arthropod vectors and animal reservoirs. Several mosquito-borne arboviruses have emerged in various geographic regions during the past few decades. Since the beginning of the 21st century, the emergence of two mosquito-borne arboviruses, chikungunya and Zika, has taken place globally. Millions of infections have not only changed the epidemiology of previously obscure viruses, but also put the world's public health capability to the test. Newly recognized pathogenic mechanisms and modes of transmission demand the development of new strategies for disease control and treatment. The advancement of vaccine candidates in various phases of clinical trials and the evaluation of vector control strategies in the field provide the promise of new solutions for endemic or emerging diseases. In this review, the emergence of six medically important mosquito-borne arboviruses and new tools for disease control will be discussed.