Oropouche Virus (Sloth Fever)

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
The Oropouche virus, also known as sloth fever, is a virus native to forested tropical areas and is transmitted to humans by small biting flies and some mosquitoes. It has caused outbreaks in South America and the Caribbean, with symptoms similar to dengue or Zika. There are no vaccines or specific treatments available yet.

Key Points

  • Oropouche virus is transmitted by small biting flies and some mosquitoes in forested tropical areas.
  • Symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle aches, and in severe cases, bleeding, meningitis, and encephalitis.
  • No vaccines or specific treatments are currently available for the virus.
  • Travelers to Cuba and South America should take precautions to prevent bug bites.