Sandfly fever

Definition

An acute febrile illness in humans caused by phleboviruses (genus Phlebovirus, family Phenuiviridae) transmitted through the bite of infected female phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae). The term encompasses several distinct viral syndromes, most notably Pappataci fever (caused by Sandfly fever Sicilian virus and Sandfly fever Naples virus), characterized by sudden onset of fever, headache, myalgia, and leukopenia. Despite the shared name, 'sandfly fever' is clinically and etiologically distinct from visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar), which is also transmitted by sand flies but caused by Leishmania protozoa.

Etymology

Example

Outbreaks of Sandfly fever Naples virus commonly occur in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions during warm months when Phlebotomus papatasi sand fly populations peak, with military personnel and travelers to endemic areas at particular risk.

Synonyms

• Pappataci fever
• Papatasi fever
• Phlebotomus fever
• three-day fever

Related Terms

• phlebotomine
• Arbovirus
• Leishmaniasis
• vector-borne disease
• Phlebotomus
• Lutzomyia

Usage Notes

The term is ambiguous in older literature and non-specialist contexts, sometimes incorrectly applied to visceral leishmaniasis. Specialists restrict 'sandfly fever' to viral phlebovirus infections. The two major serotypes—Sandfly fever Naples virus and Sandfly fever Sicilian virus—are distinguished by geographic distribution and antigenic properties. Asymptomatic infections are common, complicating epidemiological tracking. No specific antiviral treatment or licensed vaccine exists; prevention relies on avoiding sand fly bites through repellents and protective clothing.