What is Oropouche Fever?

About Oropouche Fever:

• It is an emerging zoonotic arboviral disease caused by the Oropouche Virus (OROV). 
• OROV is part of the orthobunyavirus family, with an incubation period of 4 to 8 days.
• It was first discovered in Trinidad and Tobago in 1955.
• Symptoms:
  • The symptoms of Oropouche fever often mimic those of other viral infections, including fever, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, and nausea.
  • However, severe cases can lead to meningitis or encephalitis, posing significant health risks, especially to vulnerable populations.
  • Most patients recover in about a week, but for some, symptoms linger for weeks.
• Transmission:
• • It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected midge (small fly) or mosquito.
  • Factors such as urbanization, deforestation, and climate change contribute to the proliferation of its vector, escalating the risk of transmission.
• Treatment:
  • There are no vaccines to prevent Oropouche fever. 
  • There is no specific treatment for Oropouche fever.
  • Medical care aims to control the symptoms and help with recovery.