Oropouche virus outbreak in South America

What is Oropouche virus?

Oropouche is a vector-borne disease transmitted among people primarily through bites of the midge (Culicoides paraensis). Mosquitoes, monkeys, birds, rodents, and sloths can also be involved in transmission. The midge species C. paraensis is not found in New Zealand but is widely distributed in the Americas. 

Oropouche virus infection in pregnant women may lead to miscarriage, abortion, developmental problems, and foetal deformities. 

Symptoms

Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, headache, stiff joints, aches, and pains and, in some cases photophobia (fear of light), diplopia (double vision), nausea and persistent vomiting, and occasionally more severe symptoms, such as hemorrhage, neurological symptoms, and meningitis. 

Symptoms can last from five to seven days, Direct human-to-human transmission of the virus has not yet been documented. 

Vaccines and treatment

There are no vaccines to prevent, or specific treatments for, Oropouche virus disease. 

Oropouche outbreak in South America and imported cases in North America and Europe

The virus is endemic in Brazil, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago. Between 01 January and 25 November 2024, 11,634 confirmed Oropouche cases, including 2 deaths have been reported in the Region of Americas: Bolivia (356 cases), Brazil (9,563 cases including 2 deaths), Canada (2 imported cases), Cayman Island (1 imported case), Colombia (74 cases), Cuba (603 cases), Guyana (2 cases), Panama (1 case), Peru (936 cases), and USA (94 imported cases). Additionally, imported cases have been reported in countries in the European Region (30 cases). 

An increasing list of countries are reporting cases of Oropouche virus. Please check with a travel health provider if unsure whether the country/ies you are planning to travel to, are also reporting Oropouche outbreaks.

Transmission during pregnancy to unborn child

Cases of vertical transmission (from pregnant person to baby in utero) of Oropouche virus infection have been reported in Brazil and Cuba. Brazil has confirmed 3 cases of vertical transmission (2 cases of foetal death and 1 case of congenital anomaly) area further 15 foetal deaths, 5 spontaneous miscarriages and 3 cases of congenital anomalies are under investigation. Additionally, in September 2024, Cuba confirmed a case of congenital anomaly with 2 further cases under investigation. 

Health and travel advice

Those travelling to affected countries listed above should take steps to avoid midge and mosquito bites. 

Protective measures include using fine mesh mosquito nets in beds, wearing clothing that covers legs and arms, and applying repellents containing DEET, IR3535 or icaridin. Midges are much smaller than mosquitoes so traditional mosquito nets will not protect against their bites. 

Pregnant women who are planning travel to Brazil, Cuba, or Oropouche-affected countries, should consult with their healthcare provider and discuss travel plans, reasons for travel, steps to prevent midges and mosquito bites, and potential risks with their healthcare provider. 

For further information about OROV transmission refer to the Pan American Health Organization website.