Which virus causes Rift Valley fever?
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an acute viral hemorrhagic fever that is most commonly seen in domesticated animals (such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and camels) and can also cause illness in people. The disease is caused by RVF virus (RVFV), a member of the genus Phlebovirus in the order Bunyavirales.
What is the RVF virus?
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a viral disease most commonly seen in domesticated animals in sub-Saharan Africa, such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and camels. People can get RVF through contact with blood, body fluids, or tissues of infected animals, or through bites from infected mosquitoes.
What are the causes of RVF?
The disease is caused by the RVF virus. It is spread by either touching infected animal blood, breathing in the air around an infected animal being butchered, drinking raw milk from an infected animal, or the bite of infected mosquitoes. Animals such as cows, sheep, goats, and camels may be affected.
What is the vector of Rift Valley fever?
Mosquitoes are both a reservoir and vector for RVFV, which means that they can maintain virus for life and transmit it to their offspring via eggs. After periods of heavy rainfall and flooding, an increased number of RVF virus-infected mosquitos may hatch and pass virus to people and animals.
Can RVF be cured?
There are no FDA-approved treatments for Rift Valley Fever. Because most cases of RVF are mild and self-limiting, a specific treatment for RVF has not been established. Symptoms of mild illness such as fever and body aches can be managed with standard over-the-counter medications.
How do you prevent RVF?
Avoid unsafe animal products. All animal products (including meat, milk, and blood) should be thoroughly cooked before eating or drinking. Protect yourself against mosquitoes and other bloodsucking insects. Use insect repellents and bed nets, and wear long sleeved shirts and long pants to cover exposed skin.
Is there a vaccine for RVF?
CDC researchers have developed a vaccine. During early testing, all vaccinated animals were protected against the RVF virus. There were no negative side effects. The vaccine is also inexpensive to produce, and this makes it an affordable option for developing countries.
What are the symptoms of RVF?
Most commonly, people with RVF have either no symptoms or a mild illness that includes fever, weakness, back pain, and dizziness at the onset of illness. Typically, patients recover within two days to one week after symptoms start.
How many people have died from Rift Valley Fever?
Rift Valley fever (RVF) has been reported in Kenya in humans in Isiolo and Mandera counties and in animals in Isiolo, Mandera, Murang’a and Garissa counties. As of 4 February 2021, there were a total of 32 human cases (14 confirmed positive), and 11 deaths (CFR 34 %).