Addressing West Nile Virus Threats in the Middle East: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Epidemiology, Biosafety, and Biosecurity

Abstract

Another rising public health concern in the Middle East is the West Nile Virus, which is transmitted by the Culex mosquito, with its transmission involving several hosts like humans, birds, horses or others, and thus demonstrates the need for incorporating biosecurity into the prevention and public health protection strategies. This can be done through the One Health approach, which brings together human, animal, and environmental health for effective public health threat surveillance and risk management. As an emerging zoonotic arbovirus infection, this virus demands an interdisciplinary approach from public health authorities, veterinary services, and other organizations, as highlighted in the paper. This review also emphasizes the need for further research into the epidemiology and transmission patterns for effective formulation of prevention strategies for the Middle Eastern region which will significantly enhance biosecurity and thus public health preparedness and response to the West Nile Virus and emerging zoonotic arbovirus.