Toscana virus, also known as Toscana phlebovirus, is a virus that belongs to the Phlebovirus genus in the Phenuiviridae family. It is an arthropod-borne virus primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected sandflies, particularly in the Mediterranean region including Greece. Phleboviruses are enveloped viruses with a genome consisting of three single-stranded RNA molecules. Toscana virus has four structural proteins:
- two outer glycoproteins encoded by the M segment
- a nucleocapsid protein and a nonstructural protein encoded by the S segment
- an RNA-dependent viral polymerase encoded by the L segment
Toscana virus infection can lead to a febrile illness known as Toscana virus fever. In most instances, the incubation period lasts from three to seven days but can last up to two weeks. After that period, there is a sudden onset of symptoms typically characterized by high fever, headache, rash, nausea, vomiting, malaise, and/or myalgia. Neck stiffness is reported in nearly 90% of the cases and encephalitis is observed in nearly 40% of the cases.
Preventative measures for Toscana virus infection include using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and using bed nets in areas where sandflies are known to be active. Toscana virus infection commonly occurs during the warm season.
