Oropouche virus, a threat to the population! How it is transmitted and what symptoms appear first

<a href="https://www.world-today-news.com/correio-newspaper-oropouche-fever-bahia-reaches-154-infected-with-the-virus-in-2024/" title="Correio Newspaper | Oropouche fever: Bahia reaches 154 infected with the virus in 2024″>Oropouche virus is a tropical viral disease that has been a growing concern in recent years. Although it has been present in South America and the Caribbean for decades, recent events have drawn attention to its potential for global spread.

What is Oropouche virus?

Oropouche virus is an arbovirus, which means it is transmitted by arthropods, especially mosquitoes and midges. It was first discovered in 1955 in Trinidad and Tobago and is named after the river near which it was isolated.

How is it transferred?

1. Insect bites: Midges are the main vector of transmission, but mosquitoes can also play a role. These insects hatch during the day and are attracted to moist places.
2. Natural reservoirs: The virus circulates in nature among various animals, such as sloths, primates and birds.

Signs

Symptoms of Oropouche fever can range from moderate to severe and include:

• Fever
• Severe headache
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Bloods
• Nausea
• Throwing out
• Greas

In severe cases, the virus can affect the central nervous system, causing encephalitis or meningitis.

Problems

Although most people make a full recovery, in some cases, Oropouche virus can lead to serious complications, including:

• Encephalitis
• Meningitis
• Death (in rare cases)

Diagnostic

The diagnosis of Oropouche fever is based on clinical symptoms, travel history and the results of laboratory tests such as serology and PCR.

Handling

To date, there is no specific treatment for Oropouche virus infection. Treatment is mostly symptomatic and involves taking drugs to reduce fever and pain.

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Since there is no vaccine or specific treatment, prevention is key. Here are some steps you can take:

Insect Repellents: Use insect repellents registered by health authorities that contain active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin or IR3535.

Protective clothing: Wear long-sleeved clothing, long pants, and socks to minimize the amount of surface exposed to rays.

Mosquito net: Use mosquito nets on windows and doors.

Avoid areas with many mosquitoes: Limit outdoor activities in mosquito-infested areas, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Strengthen hygiene measures: Wash your hands often with soap and water.

Also read: Dengue or “broken bone fever”: causes, symptoms, treatment

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