WASHINGTON, CMC – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued an epidemiological update on Oropouche virus disease (OROV), highlighting the importance of strengthening diagnosis, clinical management, prevention, and vector control measures in the Americas, including the Caribbean.
On Wednesday, PAHO said that from the beginning of the year to early October, 10,275 confirmed cases of Oropouche were reported in nine countries in the region, the majority of which was in Brazil (8,258, including two deaths).
Other affected countries include Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, Guyana, and Peru.
Imported cases were also reported in the United States (90 cases) and Canada (two cases), and they were linked to travel to countries with ongoing transmission. Furthermore, 30 additional imported cases were reported in Europe.
Since the last epidemiological alert was issued on September 6, PAHO said 423 additional cases of Oropouche were reported, including from two countries that had not previously reported cases – Ecuador and Guyana.
Oropouche fever is a viral disease characterized by high fever, severe headache, photophobia, and muscle and joint pain. It generally resolves within two to three weeks.
It can sometimes cause more severe complications, such as meningitis or encephalitis.
“Currently, no specific vaccines or antiviral treatments are available, and management focuses on symptomatic relief,” it said.
In 2024, PAHO said the virus had been detected in areas where transmission was not previously reported.
It said deaths associated with the infection have also been recorded, as well as cases of vertical transmission, including fetal deaths and congenital anomalies.
PAHO has urged member states to report any unusual events related to the disease, including deaths associated with OROV and cases of possible vertical transmission, as this information is crucial for improving epidemiological surveillance.
The health organization emphasized the need to strengthen epidemiological and entomological surveillance and urged the implementation of vector control measures, given that OROV is primarily transmitted through the bite of the Culicoides paraenesis midge.
It also recommended promoting personal protection practices to avoid bites, especially for pregnant women and vulnerable populations.
PAHO urged all member states to follow the established guidelines for the detection and surveillance of Oropouche and to adopt a “proactive approach” in reporting cases and implementing control strategies.
and then  has issued an epidemiological update on Oropouche virus disease (OROV), highlighting){kind=link}