Peribunyaviridae

Peribunyaviridae is a family of enveloped, negative-sense RNA viruses in the order Bunyavirales. Members have a tripartite genome consisting of L, M, and S segments. The L segment encodes the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase; the M segment encodes the envelope glycoproteins Gn and Gc; the S segment encodes the nucleocapsid protein and, in some members, a nonstructural protein. Virions are typically small, about 80–120 nanometers in diameter. They are primarily transmitted by arthropods, especially mosquitoes and biting midges, to vertebrate hosts. Most Peribunyaviridae viruses circulate in wildlife and occasionally infect humans, causing febrile illness and, in some cases, neurologic disease such as meningitis or encephalitis. The geographic range is global, with human cases reported in various regions depending on the virus.

Taxonomically, Peribunyaviridae comprises several genera, including Orthobunyavirus, Pacuvirus, and Herbevirus. The genus Orthobunyavirus contains numerous species and includes clinically important viruses, such as Bunyamwera virus and members of the California encephalitis complex, including La Crosse virus, as well as Oropouche-like viruses.

Taxonomy and classification are maintained by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV), and ongoing research continues to refine the relationships within Bunyavirales. Public health surveillance for Peribunyaviridae infections relies on molecular diagnostics and serology, alongside ecological studies of vector and host reservoirs.