The Ministry of Health (Minsa), through the National Department of Epidemiology and in collaboration with the Gorgas Memorial Institute, confirmed a case of Oropouche fever in a 31-year-old man, who has already recovered, the ministry reported in its latest statement. .
Oropouche fever is a viral disease transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes of the genus Culicoides and Culex, also known as midges.
Outbreaks of this disease have been more frequent in the Amazon Basin region. Due to the increase in cases, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an epidemiological alert about the virus in the Region of the Americas in February of this year.
After an incubation period of 5 to 7 days, symptoms include high fever, severe headache, extreme weakness, joint and muscle pain.
In some cases, photophobia, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and low back pain may occur. Although serious complications are rare, the disease can lead to aseptic meningitis, which prolongs recovery for several weeks.
The Minsa recommends preventive measures such as the use of repellents, clothing that covers extremities and fine mesh mosquito nets, especially to protect the most vulnerable groups.
Currently, there are no vaccines or specific antiviral treatments for this disease, so its management is symptomatic, focused on relieving discomfort and maintaining hydration.
It is important to seek medical attention if you have similar symptoms, since Oropouche fever can be confused with diseases such as dengue, Zika or chikungunya. In light of this case, the authorities have intensified epidemiological surveillance in the country.
Yesterday, the Minsa also presented its weekly report on cases of diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, leishmaniasis, malaria, hantavirus, screwworm and other respiratory infections, corresponding to the epidemiological week.
According to this, 26,433 accumulated cases of dengue have been reported nationwide, highlighting the Metropolitan Region with 7,139 cases.
In addition, 47 deaths from dengue have been recorded, with one new death this week.
No new cases of Zika have been recorded, remaining at two accumulated in 2024. One new case of Chikunkunya was reported from week 42, raising the accumulated total to 11.
5 new cases of Leishmaniasis were reported, adding 941 in total during the year.
On the other hand, the cumulative number of malaria cases to date is 12,599. There have been 13 cases of hantavirus fever and 7 cases of cardiopulmonary syndrome.
There are no new cases of screwworm, with a total of 83 reported in 2024. There have also been no new cases of monkeypox, remaining at 5 accumulated.
Finally, 451 cases of Serious Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) were reported during the week, adding up to 19,929 in the total for the year.
The Minsa recommends avoiding exposure of children in crowded places and promoting vaccination against influenza, pneumococcus and COVID-19.
