Which of the following flavivirus is closely related to Russian spring summer encephalitis causing virus –
**Core Concept**
Russian spring-summer encephalitis (RSS) is a flavivirus-induced disease primarily affecting the central nervous system. The virus is transmitted by ticks and can cause severe encephalitis in humans.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), which is a flavivirus closely associated with Russian spring-summer encephalitis. TBEV is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected hard ticks (Ixodidae) and can cause severe encephalitis in humans. The virus is endemic in various parts of Europe and Asia, including Russia, where it was first identified.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is another flavivirus but is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes (Culex spp.) and is not associated with Russian spring-summer encephalitis.
**Option B:** West Nile virus (WNV) is a flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes (Culex spp.) and is not closely related to Russian spring-summer encephalitis.
**Option C:** Yellow fever virus (YFV) is a flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes (Aedes spp.) and is primarily found in Africa and South America, not associated with Russian spring-summer encephalitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a significant public health concern in Europe and Asia, with a high mortality rate if left untreated. Early recognition and prompt treatment are crucial in preventing complications and improving patient outcomes.
**Correct Answer:** C. Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV).