An alarming virus, nicknamed ‘sloth fever’, has sparked concern after the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control confirmed 19 cases in the EU, marking its appearance in Europe for the first time.
The oropouche virus (OROV), an RNA arbovirus, was initially identified in the village of Oropouche in Trinidad and Tobago back in 1955. According to experts at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, the virus is mainly transmitted through the bites of infected midges, with some mosquito species also known carriers.
In July, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) raised the alarm with an epidemiological alert following a spike in oropouche virus cases across Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Cuba, and Colombia.
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Why is it called ‘Sloth Fever’?
Oropouche fever is actually spread by mosquitoes and midges -Credit:Getty
The Lancet medical journal explains that the virus can be found in pale-throated sloths, as well as non-human primates and birds. It seems the association with sloths, which are carriers of various parasites and pathogens, has led to the catchy name.
“The term ‘sloth fever’ is a colloquial name that has emerged due to the virus being found in areas where sloths, which are known to carry a range of parasites and pathogens, are present,” Carolina Goncalves, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmica, clarifies: “However, the name is relatively misleading as it is spread by insect bites, not by direct contact with sloths.”
Where did it come from?
Dr Enny Paixao, associate professor at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, highlighted various potential causes of the recent outbreak: “Several factors may explain the recent outbreak, including enhanced surveillance, climate and environmental changes, and potential changes to the virus. Similarly to other vector-borne diseases, such as dengue, climate change may also be impacting oropouche virus expansion.”
Dr Paixao added: “Changes to temperature and precipitation can affect transmission, for example, rising temperatures can enhance the rate of development of culicoides midges, one of the virus’ main transmission vectors in South America alongside mosquitos. Until advancements are made in vaccine development or mosquito and midge control, or until natural immunity within the population in Brazil [and other affected countries] increases, the challenge posed by this neglected tropical disease will persist.”
On the question of the risk it poses to UK residents, Dr Philip Veal, travel health consultant at UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), allayed fears by confirming: “The midge that carries oropouche virus is not currently established in Europe. It is typically found in the Americas. There is no evidence that the virus can spread from person to person.” The UKHSA also added that all cases diagnosed in Europe were acquired elsewhere.
“There is much we still do not know about the oropouche virus but one of the main concerns arising from the current outbreak in South America is its potential harmful effects on unborn foetuses,” warned Paixao. In July, an alert was issued by the PAHO regarding the potential transmission of the oropouche virus from mother to child in Brazil.
“Some very limited studies have suggested that antibodies against the virus have been found in children born with microencephaly and that there may be a link between infection, miscarriage, and foetal deaths in Brazil, but further research is needed to investigate a potential causal link,” Paixao explained.
What are the symptoms?
Most people with the Oropouche virus get a rash, headache, and muscular pain -Credit:Getty
The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has clarified that common symptoms include a rash, headache, muscle or joint pain with weakness. Those affected will typically experience a fever illness three to eight days after infection.
Additionally, some individuals may also experience gastrointestinal symptoms and light sensitivity. Severe cases are rare, but can lead to neurological symptoms similar to meningitis.
Can it be treated?
“As of now, there are no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines available for oropouche virus,” Goncalves stated. “Treatment primarily focuses on managing symptoms and providing supportive care.”
Patients struck down with the illness are being told to rest up, keep fluids up and take paracetamol to help reduce a fever and manage pain. “In more severe cases, hospitalisation may be necessary to provide supportive care, especially if complications arise, although severe cases are relatively rare,” Goncalves disclosed.
What should I do if I visit somewhere with cases?
“When travelling to affected areas, you can avoid the infection by preventing insect bites. Use insect repellent, cover exposed skin and sleep under a treated bed net,” Veal advised. “Plan ahead and visit the TravelHealthPro website to look up your destination and the latest health information and advice, particularly if you are pregnant.”
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Publish date : 2024-08-13 20:17:00
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