An emerging virus transmitted by insect bites has become a serious threat, prompting concern from health officials. As of August 1, more than 8,000 cases of the Oropouche virus have been reported this year, primarily in South America. However, the virus is now spreading to countries where it hasn't previously been seen, including cases in the United States and Europe tied to international travel.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), part of the World Health Organization, has issued an epidemiological alert, raising the public health risk level to "high" in the Americas. While historically the disease has been considered mild, the spread of transmission and reports of severe cases have increased the need for heightened surveillance.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also issued a health advisory, urging healthcare providers to watch for new cases and recommending that pregnant women avoid traveling to affected areas. At least 21 U.S. travelers returning from Cuba have tested positive for the virus.
**What is the Oropouche Virus?**
Discovered in 1955 in Trinidad and Tobago, Oropouche virus is not well understood, with about 500,000 cases recorded since its discovery. Around 60% of infected individuals experience symptoms, which resemble those of dengue or Zika, including fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, eye pain, light sensitivity, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and rash. In rare cases, the virus can affect the nervous system, leading to meningitis and encephalitis.
Though Oropouche comes from a different virus family than Zika, it presents similar public health concerns. Experts are still working to fully understand its transmission and impact, especially on pregnant individuals.
**How Does It Spread?**
Oropouche virus is spread by insect bites, particularly from biting midges and certain mosquitoes. It is endemic to the Amazon basin in South America, where it circulates between insects and animals like rodents, sloths, and birds. People visiting forested areas can become infected and bring the virus to urban environments.
The virus is spreading rapidly in countries where it is known to exist and in new regions, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, and Peru. While no local transmission has been reported in the U.S., travel-related cases have been identified.
**Current Situation**
Experts are concerned that new vectors may be contributing to the virus’s spread, with deaths and severe cases being reported for the first time. Brazil has reported deaths in two young women, and a third case in a middle-aged man is under investigation. There have also been cases of fetal death and congenital abnormalities, including microcephaly, linked to the virus in pregnant individuals.
**How to Protect Yourself**
There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for Oropouche virus. The CDC recommends preventing insect bites by avoiding outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, wearing protective clothing, and using insect repellents. Travelers to South America and Cuba are advised to take extra precautions, and pregnant women should reconsider nonessential travel to Cuba.
Health officials are closely monitoring the situation and working to better understand the virus’s transmission and effects.
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