Canada issues updated travel advisory as Oropouche virus, spread by insect bites, triggers outbreaks in Cuba and South America.

The Government of Canada has released a health advisory for international travelers following outbreaks of the Oropouche virus in Brazil, Bolivia, and Cuba. While the virus has been present in the Americas for some time, the recent surge in cases, particularly in Cuba, is cause for concern.

Below is a detailed look at the Oropouche virus, also known as “sloth fever.”

Origins of the Oropouche Virus

The Oropouche virus was first discovered in 1955 in a 24-year-old forest worker from Vega de Oropouche, a village in Trinidad near the Oropouche River, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Endemic to the Amazon Basin, the virus initially infected local wildlife, including three-toed sloths, which were believed to play a role in its transmission between animals and insects, according to Zain Chagla, an associate professor at McMaster University and an expert in infectious diseases.

How Is the Virus Transmitted?

Oropouche virus is mainly spread to humans through bites from infected midges, commonly referred to as “no-see-ums,” or possibly from mosquitoes. Midges are most active during the afternoon, while mosquitoes are more prevalent at night.

In Canada, the risk of the virus establishing itself is low due to the absence of these insect vectors. As such, travelers returning from affected regions are not required to quarantine, though they may still require medical evaluation if symptoms develop, said Chagla.

Major Health Concerns

There is growing concern about the potential transmission of the virus from a pregnant person to their unborn child. Canada’s health officials are urging pregnant individuals to follow strict insect bite prevention measures when traveling to affected areas and to consult their healthcare provider before making travel plans.

To date, there have been instances where the Oropouche virus has been detected in pregnant women, with tragic outcomes such as miscarriages and stillbirths, though the virus’s exact role in these outcomes remains unclear.

Current Case Numbers

Oropouche virus cases continue to rise across affected regions, with approximately 8,000 locally acquired cases reported in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, and Peru. As of mid-August, the U.S. confirmed 21 cases among travelers returning from Cuba, including 20 in Florida and one in New York. Meanwhile, 19 cases have been reported in travelers returning to Europe from Cuba.

Canada has yet to report any cases, though experts like Dr. Isaac Bogoch believe it’s only a matter of time.

Symptoms and Treatment of Oropouche Virus

The Oropouche virus generally causes symptoms such as fever, severe headaches, chills, muscle pain, and joint pain. Other possible symptoms include nausea, dizziness, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and rashes.

The symptoms typically last between two and seven days, though they may reoccur. In rare cases, severe complications like meningitis, encephalitis, or hemorrhage may occur.

There is no specific treatment or vaccine for Oropouche virus. Symptomatic treatment involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for pain and fever, though travelers should avoid NSAIDs like Aspirin until dengue fever can be ruled out, as these medications increase the risk of bleeding.

Travel Advice for Oropouche Virus Prevention

Health authorities recommend several measures to minimize the risk of contracting Oropouche virus:

Consult a healthcare provider or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before traveling to affected regions for personalized advice.
Use insect repellent, mosquito netting, and wear long sleeves and pants to reduce exposure to insect bites.
Avoid outdoor activities during peak biting times for midges and mosquitoes.
Check the Government of Canada’s travel advisory website for the latest updates and risk assessments for affected areas.

By following these precautions, travelers can significantly reduce their risk of exposure to the Oropouche virus and other insect-borne diseases.