FAQ on the Oropouche virus
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1. What is Oropouche fever?
Oropouche fever is an infectious disease caused by a virus, namely the Oropouche virus (OROV). The virus belongs to the family Peribunyaviridae (genus Orthobunyavirus) and usually leads to a febrile, flu-like illness.
2. Where does Oropouche occur?
Oropouche fever occurs predominantly in tropical regions of South and Central America and the Caribbean. Cases and outbreaks have been reported, among others, from Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, French Guiana and Venezuela.
3. How is Oropouche transmitted?
The virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blood-sucking insects. The main vectors are biting midges of the species Culicoides paraensis. Certain mosquito species (e.g. Aedes) may also act as vectors. Direct human-to-human transmission does not normally occur. In Brazil, cases have been documented in which pregnant women may have transmitted the virus to their unborn child. This has been associated with stillbirths or congenital malformations.
4. What symptoms occur?
After an incubation period of 2–10 days, the illness usually begins suddenly. Typical symptoms include high fever, chills, severe headache, muscle and joint pain. Light sensitivity, dizziness, pain behind the eyes, nausea, vomiting and skin rash may also occur. Most patients recover within a few days or weeks.
Severe courses are rare but possible: Very rarely, meningitis (inflammation of the meninges), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or bleeding may occur. Fatalities due to Oropouche are very rare.
5. How is Oropouche diagnosed?
An Oropouche infection can be detected in the laboratory by RT-PCR tests. At a later stage, detection by antibody testing (IgM/IgG) in blood is possible.
6. How is the disease treated?
There is no specific therapy against the virus. Treatment is symptomatic, e.g. fever reduction, adequate fluid intake and rest. Severe cases require medical care.
7. Is there a vaccine against Oropouche?
No, there is currently no vaccine available against the Oropouche virus. Protective measures therefore focus on avoiding insect bites.
8. How can infection be prevented?
The use of insect repellents, covering clothing, fine-mesh nets and the elimination of breeding sites for biting midges and mosquitoes are recommended.
More information
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