Rift Valley Fever, an Emerging Viral Zoonosis Worthy of Increased Attention

Abstract

Rift Valley Fever (RVF) is an emerging zoonotic disease transmitted by mosquitoes. Though North America is considered free of RVF, surveillance and monitoring of high-risk groups would be important for early detection of potential introduction of the disease. Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV) is an RNA virus that primarily affects livestock but can also infect humans with varying severity of infection. Though the disease is mainly prevalent in African countries, the vectors involved in the transmission of RVF are present in many regions in the American and European continents. So, the potential for emergence of this disease in new geographical locations is imminent. There is an unmet need for development of improved research and diagnostic tools to further investigate and manage RVF and to better understand its significance from a One Health perspective.