Summary
- Oropouche virus, a reemerging cause of disease in the Americas, has led to widespread outbreaks with over 9,000 cases and 2 deaths reported in 6 countries.
- The virus is transmitted by biting midges and mosquitoes, circulating between humans and vectors.
- Symptoms of Oropouche virus disease include fever, severe headache, myalgia, and in severe cases, hemorrhagic and neurologic symptoms.
- Vertical transmission of the virus has been reported in infants, raising concerns about potential adverse outcomes during pregnancy.
- The risk for sustained local transmission of Oropouche virus in the United States is currently low, but preparedness and response strategies are in place to prevent outbreaks should the virus be introduced.
In recent years, the Oropouche virus has been making a comeback, causing widespread disease in the Americas. This virus, belonging to the Orthobunyavirus genus, has been causing outbreaks of acute febrile illness in countries such as Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Peru. The virus, first discovered in Trinidad and Tobago in 1955, has now emerged in new areas where it had not been previously documented. More than 9,000 confirmed cases of Oropouche virus disease have been reported, with some cases even reported in travelers returning to the United States, Canada, and Europe from affected regions.
Epidemiology and Clinical Manifestations: Symptoms and Spread of Oropouche Virus
The Oropouche virus can circulate in both sylvatic (forest) and urban environments, with humans acting as bridge hosts for transmission from wildlife to populated areas. The virus is transmitted by biting midges, such as Culicoides paraensis, and mosquitoes like Culex quinquefasciatus. Symptoms of Oropouche virus disease include fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and rash. In severe cases, the virus can cause hemorrhagic symptoms and neurological complications.
Risk for Sustained Local Transmission of Oropouche Virus in the United States: Prevention and Control Measures
Although local transmission of Oropouche virus has not yet been reported in the United States, the risk for potential spread exists, especially with the increase in travel-associated cases. Vector control measures, such as insecticide spraying and source reduction, can help prevent the spread of the virus. Personal protection strategies, such as wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent, are also important in avoiding mosquito and midge bites.
Preparedness for and Response to Oropouche Virus in the United States: Public Health Strategies
The United States has experience in dealing with emergent mosquito-borne viral diseases, such as West Nile, chikungunya, Zika, and dengue viruses. Public health surveillance systems, such as ArboNET, can help in monitoring and reporting cases of Oropouche virus disease. Clinicians should be vigilant in identifying and reporting suspected cases to enable testing and implementation of prevention measures. Vector control efforts and community engagement are essential in preventing the spread of the virus.
Conclusion: Addressing the Ongoing Threat of Oropouche Virus
Overall, while the risk of localized outbreaks of Oropouche virus disease in most areas of the United States is considered low, vigilance and preparedness are key in preventing the spread of the virus. By prioritizing timely detection and control measures, public health officials can work towards preventing human cases and limiting the spread of the virus. Continued research and surveillance efforts will help in refining strategies to address the ongoing threat of Oropouche virus.
Infectious Diseases, Public Health & Prevention, Emergency Medicine