Sloth fever has arrived in America: What are the symptoms and how to prevent it?

Oropouche virusKnown informally “Sloth Fever”The number of infections is increasing in many countries South America and the Caribbeanand recently achieved America. Below, we will examine in detail what this disease is, how it spreads and what it is. Your symptomsCiting relevant sources.

He Oropouche virus It is an insect-borne disease that was first discovered 1955 in Trinidad and Tobago In a forestry worker. According to CBS NewsMore than 500,000 cases have been reported since the virus was discovered, and it is spread by the bites of mosquitoes and other insects, which are common in forest areas. South America.

In recent months, these cases have been on the rise, health officials said Oropouche virus in the countries South America and the Caribbean. According to cnnup to August 1, 2024More than 8,000 cases have been reported Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia And Cuba. Recently, the Virus has reached America21 cases have been identified Florida And New YorkThey are all travel related Cuba.

Associated Press The Health Department said Florida 30 cases of fever have been reported OrobucheOf these, 20 were reported among residents Florida returned from Cuba. In addition, European health authorities have identified 19 cases, almost all among travelers Cuba.

exchange Oropouche virus Occurs mainly through Infected insect bites. According to reports from CBS News and USA Today, Mosquitoes and some species of mosquitoes are major pathogens Virus. In wild areas, it circulates in a cycle between insect and non-human vertebrate hosts such as birds, rodents, and sloths, from which it earned the nickname “sloth fever.”

According to Pan American Health OrganizationQuoted cnn, Climate change and deforestation The chances of coming into contact with infected insects are increasing, thus increasing the risk of disease transmission. Virus For new areas. Geographic changes in distribution suggest that new vectors may be involved in transmission cycles.

Lethargic fever Symptoms are similar to other mosquito-borne diseasesLike Dengue or Zika. According to CBS NewsFever, chills, headache, muscle aches and joint stiffness are the most common symptoms. Other possible symptoms mentioned CDC They include sensitivity to light, dizziness, pain behind the eyes, nausea, vomiting and skin rash.

cnn It has been reported that symptoms usually last 2 to 7 days, but may recur days or weeks later. Most people recover within several days to a month. However, one in 20 people may develop a serious illness such as meningitis, encephalitis or haemorrhage.

To date, there is no evidence of local transmission AmericaBut the CDC Health advisories have been issued to alert health care providers and public health officials. According to the information USA TodayConfirmed cases America For returning passengers only Cuba And Brazil.

Treatment and Prevention Currently, there are no specific vaccines or antiviral treatments Oropouche virus. According to CBS NewsPrevention is mainly based on Avoid insect bites. Recommendations include using insect repellent, installing mosquito nets on doors and windows, and wearing clothing that covers most of the body.

USA Today And cnn It has been reported that health authorities are particularly concerned about cases of mother-to-fetal transmission. The CDC Five cases have been confirmed in which an infected mother transmitted the virus to her fetus. Four of these cases resulted in microcephaly, a serious birth defect that can result in an underdeveloped brain and abnormally small head.

The CDC Pregnant women should avoid non-essential travel to affected areas Cuba And Brazil. It also advises all travelers to take steps to prevent insect bites, especially in areas with virus outbreaks. Virus.

Information that Associated Press Health officials say America A notice has been sent to doctors to be careful in identifying cases of travelers from Cuba And South America. Also, the Pan American Health Organization An epidemiological alert has been issued America.