Washington, DC, September 10, 2024 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) recently issued an update on Oropouche fever (OROV) in the Americas, urging countries to strengthen surveillance, report any unusual events, and reinforce prevention and vector control measures.
In 2024, the virus has been detected in areas where transmission had not been previously reported. Deaths associated with the infection have also been reported, as well as cases of vertical transmission. Since the last PAHO epidemiological alert, issued on August 1, 2024, and as of September 6, 1,774 additional cases of Oropouche have been reported in six countries, bringing the total to 9,852 confirmed cases. Brazil remains the most affected country with 7,931 cases and two deaths.
Other currently affected countries include Bolivia (356 cases), Colombia (74 cases), Cuba (506 cases), Peru (930 cases) and, most recently, the Dominican Republic (33 cases). Imported cases have also been reported in the United States (21 cases) and Canada (1 case), following travel to endemic countries. In addition, 30 imported cases have been documented in Europe.
Regarding mother-to-child transmission, a total of one stillbirth and one case of congenital anomaly have been confirmed in Brazil. Additional investigations into other stillbirths, spontaneous abortions and congenital anomalies are currently underway.
Oropouche fever is a viral disease characterized by high fever, severe headache, and muscle and joint pain. In some cases, it can cause more serious complications, such as meningitis or encephalitis. Although most people recover completely, there is no specific treatment and prevention is essential.
The virus is transmitted mainly through the bite of infected mosquitoes, small insects that usually bite during the day and live in humid areas with organic matter and in wooded areas.
In light of the increase in cases in 2024, PAHO reiterates the importance of implementing preventive measures, especially for pregnant women. These measures include:
- Use fine mesh mosquito nets on doors and windows, with holes smaller than 1 millimeter, to prevent the entry of vectors.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and long pants, especially in homes with a sick person.
- Apply insect repellents containing DEET to exposed areas of skin.
- In outbreak situations, outdoor activities should be avoided during dawn and dusk, when vector activity is highest.
- Seek medical attention for any suspicious symptoms.
PAHO continues to monitor the situation and work closely with member countries to control the spread of the virus and minimize its impact on public health.
On September 6, the Organization held a webinar focused on entomological surveillance and vector control of the Oropouche virus. Experts from PAHO, the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) of Brazil, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States discussed key aspects of surveillance and control of the virus. Culicoides paraensis mosquitoes and other potential vector species involved in OROV transmission.
During the event, PAHO presented Interim guidelines for entomological surveillance and prevention measures for Oropouche virus vectorswhich address the life cycle of vectors, as well as methods of surveillance, capture and processing of collected entomological material, among other aspects.
