A large number of people experience a high fever with a rash during the summer months in a small country. Epidemiologists suspect an emerging disease. Both Aedes and Anopheles mosquitoes are endemic to the country. Researchers are able to detect +ssRNA in the blood of fever victims and in some mosquitoes. What type of pathogen might be responsible for the epidemic?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that there is a fever with a rash during summer months, along with the presence of both Aedes and Anopheles mosquitoes, suggests a viral pathogen. The detection of +ssRNA further supports a viral infection. Flaviviruses, such as dengue, Zika, and West Nile viruses, are known to cause fever with a rash and are often transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.

A Large Number of People Experience a High Fever with a Rash