Alphaviruses: a modern view on the problem

At present, infectious diseases of alphaviral etiology remain relevant. The study examined the characteristics of alphaviruses, including the present knowledge of the structure and replication of the virion; prevalence of epidemiologically significant species and potential distribution areas of some alphaviruses; pathogenesis and clinical presentation of causative diseases, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment; and their possible use as pathogenic biological agents. Sixteen strains of alphaviruses are hazardous to human health, and some of them can disrupt human activities. Areas with alphaviruses are characterized by specific ecological conditions, presence of vectors, and susceptible hosts. Alphaviruses are predominantly distributed in equatorial and subequatorial belts. Some alphaviruses have been reported in the Russian Federation. The natural foci of alphaviruses are reportedly altered because of the expansion of their existing localizations, including the Russian territory. To predict the occurrence of alphavirus outbreaks, it is necessary to monitor pathogenic populations for mutations that can significantly increase their pathogenicity and virulence. Most alphaviruses, including those registered in Russia, do not have specific products for diagnostics, prevention, and treatment. Meanwhile, alphaviral diseases have great military–epidemiological significance, as they can cause natural focal morbidity in certain regions of the world and injury to the civilian population and service personnel following their use as pathogenic biological agents.