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Oropouche fever in South America and Cuba

31 July 2024

As of 16 July 2024, the Pan American Health Organization reports continued transmission of Oropouche virus in Bolivia (313 cases), Brazil (6 976 cases), Colombia (38 cases), Cuba (74 cases), and Peru (287 cases).

Brazil is investigating two cases where pregnant women may have transmitted Oropouche virus to their baby.

Oropouche fever is caused by Oropouche virus (OROV) which is transmitted by midges and mosquitoes. Large outbreaks of oropouche fever can occur.

Symptoms typically start 4–8 days after being bitten, and can include fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, dizziness, stomach pain, vomiting, rash, or sensitivity to light.

Most people recover after a week without long-term effects. Severe illness is very rare, but can result in meningitis.

Treatment is supportive. There is no vaccine for Oropouche fever.

Advice for Travellers

All travellers to endemic regions are potentially at risk of Oropouche fever and should be aware of this infection.

Travellers developing a fever and/or flu-like symptoms either during or on return home from travel to outbreak areas are advised to seek medical attention as soon as possible.