[Natural foci of viruses borne by Phlebotomus papatasi in the USSR according to a serologic study of the population].

Seven hundred sixteen blood serum specimens from residents of presumable foci of phlebotomus fevers in Turkmenia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Moldavia were examined by the neutralization, complement fixation, hemagglutionation-inhibition and indirect immunofluorescence tests for the presence of antibody to viruses of the group of phlebotomus fevers (Sicilyan, Neapolitan, and Karimabad) and to rhabdovirus isfahan transmitted by phlebotomus papatasi. For the first time, antibody to Karimabad and Isfahan viruses were found in residents of the Central Asian republics. Antibody to Sicilyan and Neapolitan fevers were found in residents of all the republics examined. Data have been obtained indicating probable pathogenicity of Isfahan virus for man.