Currently, the Brazil’s health authorities are trying to tackle with oropouche virus outbreak. The OROV infection causes the Oropouche fever. The OROV infection is transmitted by the bites of mosquitos or midges. Two women died in the Brazilian state of Bahia because of fever, both aged 30. Both women experienced signs similar to dengue fever and had no comorbidities. According to Brazil’s health ministry, there have been no records in the world’s scientific literature of deaths from the disease.
7,236 cases of Oropouche fever have been recorded in 20 states, most of which were reported in Amazonas and Rondonia in July. In 2023 year, 840 cases were recorded in Brazil.
What is Oropouche fever?
Oropouche fever is caused by the Oropouche virus (OROV), transmitted by the bite of an infected midge or mosquito. This virus was detected in 1955 in Trinidad and Tobago. The Oropouche virus outbreak in Brazil in 1961 caused around 11,000 cases, according to The Lancet. The virus has also been identified in Europe. Italy recorded its first case in June 2024. The affected person in Italy had recently come back from a trip to the Caribbean, according to different sources.
What are the symptoms?
As per the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Oropouche symptoms are similar to dengue and include muscle aches, vomiting, chills, fever, headache, or sensitivity to light.
Symptoms generally begin 4-8 days after getting bitten by an affected mosquito and last for 3-6 days. Most people recover fully without any long-term issues. Treatment is supportive, as there are no specific medications or vaccines available.
Typically, patients recover in about seven days. The World Health Organization observes that severe cases are uncommon. Currently, there are no specific vaccines or antiviral treatments for the disease.
How does the virus spread?
Similar to dengue, Zika, Mayaro, chikungunya, and Venezuelan equine encephalitis fever, Oropouche spreads when it’s rainy season. Although Oropouche fever has been associated with tropical climate conditions, it’s difficult to make any decision because of a lack of available data. For instance, some outbreaks have happened besides the tropical conditions typically linked to transmission events.
How to prevent oropouche fever?
Since the oropouche fever is spread by mosquitoes, wearing protective clothing, using a repellent, using mosquito nets, and removing mosquito breeding sites are a few preventive measures. If symptoms of the oropouche virus worsen, then seek medical help as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Oropouche virus outbreak is reported in Brazil and 2 deaths have been reported till now. The blog shares potential symptoms of the oropouche virus and safety measures to prevent oropouche fever. If any of you find these symptoms, then seek medical help. For more health information, subscribe to Personal Care N Heal.
