Two clusters of Toscana virus meningo-encephalitis in Livorno Province and Elba Island, July-September 2018.

BACKGROUND

Toscana virus (TOSV) is an arbovirus transmitted to humans by Phlebotomus spp sandflies. It causes aseptic meningitis and meningoencephalitis with marked seasonality. Here we describe the clinical, microbiological and epidemiological features of two clusters of cases occurred in Tuscany in 2018.

METHODS

A confirmed case was defined as the detection of anti-TOSV IgM and IgG in serum sample, in presence of typical clinical manifestations. We consulted hospital records of hospitalized patients to collect clinical information and obtained epidemiological information from the local health authority investigation report. We telephonically interviewed patients using a standard questionnaire for a 6 months follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 12 cases of TOSV meningo-encephalitis with onset between 4th of July and 12th of September accessed health care services in the province of Livorno. Eight cases were males with median age 41,5 and four were not resident in the area. Serological investigations confirmed a recent TOSV infection. Eight cases reported visiting Elba Island and four had a possible occupational-related exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

This surge of infection emphasizes the need of information campaigns coupled with adequate surveillance and control interventions against TOSV that, among other arboviruses, is a growing issue of concern in Italy.