Oropouche virus in South America and the Caribbean (Update 2)
06 Dec 2024
The World Health Organization has reported 11 634 confirmed cases of Oropouche virus infection in the Americas and Caribbean from 1 January 20204 to 25 November 2024
Affected countries are:
Bolivia: 356 cases
Brazil: 9 563 cases including 2 deaths
Colombia: 74 cases
Cuba: 703 cases
Ecuador: 2 cases
Guyana: 2 cases
Panama: 1 case
Peru: 936 cases
In addition, 23 suspected cases have been reported in the Dominican Republic.
Oropouche fever is a viral infection spread by the bites of midges and mosquitoes. 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.
Recovery usually occurs after a week and severe illness is rare. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for Oropouche fever.
There is a possibility that Oropouche viruscan be transmitted to babies during pregnancy.
Advice for Travellers
If you are travelling to an affected region you are potentially at risk of Oropouche fever and should be aware of this infection.
- You should protect yourself against mosquito bites at all times.
If you are unwell during or after travelling to an affected area, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible and give details of your recent travel history.