Oropouche virus disease
Oropouche virus disease is an arboviral disease caused by the Oropouche virus (OROV). The virus was first identified in Trinidad and Tobago during the 1950's. Since then, outbreaks have occurred in several Central and South American countries, including Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia and Panama. During 2024, outbreaks have been reported in Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, and more recently Cuba.
Oropouche virus disease is transmitted (spread) to humans mainly through the bite of an infected midge (Culicoides paraensis) which primarily bites around dawn and dusk. Some mosquitoes have also been implicated in OROV transmission in urban environments. Human-to-human transmission had never been reported in documented outbreaks. However, in 2024, possible mother-to-child transmission of the virus during pregnancy was reported and is currently under investigation. Work is ongoing to learn more about the potential risks of OROV infection during pregnancy, and information will be updated once it becomes available.
Symptoms of Oropouche virus disease begin four to eight days after an infective bite. Onset is sudden, usually with fever, headache, joint pain, muscle aches and chills. Other symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, rash, sensitivity to light, dizziness and pain behind the eyes. Symptoms typically last for up to seven days. In up to 60% of cases, symptoms may reoccur a few days or even weeks later. Some people may develop more severe disease including meningitis or encephalitis. In July 2024, two deaths were reported in Brazil, the first reported fatalities attributed to Oropouche virus disease.
Treatment for Oropouche virus disease is supportive: there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine available. Initial symptoms can be treated with rest, drinking fluids to prevent dehydration, and taking over the counter analgesics to reduce fever and pain.
Prevention
Information about OROV transmission can be found in the 'Outbreaks' section of our Country Information pages. Surveillance systems vary from country to country. Oropouche virus disease cases may not always be diagnosed or consistently reported in some countries.
There is no vaccine or medication to prevent OROV infection. Prevention is by following avoidance measures to minimise bites from midges and mosquitoes, as with many other insect and tick-borne infections. As other diseases such as Zika and malaria may exist in areas where Oropouche virus disease has been reported, pregnant women should discuss the potential risks of their travel plans with their health care provider.
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Oropouche virus disease in Panama
As of 16 November 2024, the Ministry of Health have reported the first human case of Oropouche virus disease in Panama during 2024. Please see our Oropouche virus disease in brief article for further details on Oropouche virus disease.
Oropouche virus disease in Colombia
As of 15 October 2024, a total of 74 cases of Oropouche virus disease have been reported in Colombia during 2024.
Oropouche virus disease in Bolivia
As of 15 October 2024, a total of 356 cases of Oropouche virus disease have been reported in Bolivia during 2024.
Oropouche virus disease in Ecuador
As of 15 October 2024, two cases of Oropouche virus disease have been confirmed in Ecuador. These are the first locally acquired cases reported in the country.
