Oropouche virus disease It is a less known tropical infection that spreads throughout the central and South America in recent years. If you are planning to travel to this area, or if you have any questions about emerging health problems, there are everything you need to know.
How to catch an oropouche virus disease
Oropouchae viral diseases are caused by the Oropouche Virus (Orov). This virus spreads through insect bite, especially small insects that are called mids. It is also known as the culicoides paraensis of this small insect.)) The water is the highest in dawn and twilight, but all day long, and the second peak is the second peak at noon. The midds found in the UK and the larger Europe do not now spread the orPouche virus disease.
In urban areas, some mosquitoes have been found to carry viruses, but mids remain the main cause.
The disease is sometimes known as the ‘Neolbobo heat’ as the virus occurs not only in the sector but also in primates and algae. Vector -based diseases such as malaria, Zika or dengue fever (spread by insects).
The important form of infection currently under investigation consists of mothers and babies during pregnancy, which can cause congenital or developmental abnormalities. This is still being studied, but pregnant women who travel to the center and South America should know.
The recent discovery of Orov in the semen requires expert advice. See here for more information on the factors to be considered..
Affected
Oropouchae virus disease was first discovered in Trinida de Tobago in the 1950s and is inherent in Amazon.
Historically, it was available throughout the central and South America, including Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia and Panama. In 2024, many outbreaks occurred in these countries as well as Cuba and Barbades. In 2025, the first case was confirmed in Venezuela.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms usually appear 4-8 days after bite. The disease is sudden and the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other vector -mediated diseases, including Chikungunya, Dengue, Zika virus disease and malaria.
- having fever
- headache
- Joint pain
- myalgia
- chills
- Neighbor and vomiting
- rash
- Sensitivity to light
- dizziness
- Pain behind the eyes
Symptoms usually last up to a week, but they can come back in about 6 out of 10 or a few weeks. Most people are completely restored, but in rare cases, it can lead to more serious conditions such as meningitis, bare syndrome or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). The first death of the virus was reported in Brazil in July 2024, and sadly two people died.
It is important to return from the recent affected area and to mention the travel records and mention the travel records if you have symptoms.
therapy
Unfortunately, there is no certain medicine to treat the Oropouch virus disease. Like many virus infections, treatment is about symptoms. Drink a lot of breaks, drink a lot of water and take medicine that can be purchased without a paraseta mall or other prescription to relieve heat and pain.
If you have all the symptoms that can propose brain involvement, such as severe headaches, especially severe headaches, confusion or neck boundaries, take medical treatment immediately.
prevention
This disease does not have a vaccine, so prevention includes avoiding insect bite.
Here are some simple ways to protect yourself.
- Use an insect repellent containing at least 50% DEET
- Long -sleeved shirts and long pants, especially during dawn and twilight
- You can stop the mid to stay where there is an air conditioner or a Windows screen with a fine mesh. If you are sleeping in areas without insecticide micro -mesh beds -standard bed nets are less effective in the middle of the water because they have small insects and can pass through the net.
- Chemical pesticides sprinkled inside and outside can also help prevent mids.
- Remove the water standing around the accommodation where insects can breed.
Special considerations for pregnant women
If you are considering traveling to an area that is pregnant or affected, it is important to discuss with the GP or Travel Clinic before you go. We are still learning about the danger of Orov during pregnancy, but the possibility of mother -in -children’s transmission and the impact on the fetus means that additional attention is needed.
Medical service providers can help you assess the risks and advantages of your trip and advise you to the best protection strategy.
How to monitor development
Oropouchae virus disease is a vector mediated disease that extends geographic range and is part of the greater pattern we see. Climate change, increase in travel and urbanization play a role in how these diseases spread.
We are trying to closely monitor the situation and understand more about how to prevent viruses and its spread.
Visit the Travel Health Clinic
Most people have minor symptoms if they catch an oropouchae virus disease. But if you are planning a trip to the central or South America, it is worth recognizing risks and taking appropriate preventive measures.
4-6 weeks before your trip, you can get the latest advice on how to protect your health when you travel to the latest state of vaccinations and your trip to your travel health clinic.
There are more information about this and other diseases. National Travel Health Network and Center (NATHNAC) ‘. There are also national pages that can be found on wider guidelines related to destinations.
