07 Mar 2024 | 03:01 PM UTC
Brazil: Elevated Oropouche fever activity reported in Amazonas in early March
Elevated Oropouche fever activity reported in Amazonas, Brazil in early March. Avoid mosquito and midge bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated Oropouche fever activity in multiple areas in Amazonas, with a total of 1,674 cases reported from Jan. 1-Feb. 29. This is compared to the 773 cases reported in Brazil for 2023. Manaus (829 cases) is the most affected, reporting the highest disease activity. Brazilian health authorities urge the public to take the necessary disease prevention measures, especially during outdoor activities. This report represents the most complete data available as of March 7.
Avoid mosquito and midge bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. As weather permits, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks, or use insect protection containing DEET, picaridin, or another approved repellent.
Oropouche fever is the second most common arboviral infection in Brazil and is endemic to the Amazon Basin. The risk of Oropouche fever infection is highest during the rainy season, especially in rural areas. Oropouche fever is a disease caused by Oropouche virus (OROV) and is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of mosquitoes or midges (small flies). Symptoms typically appear 4 to 8 days after being bitten but can develop up to 12 days after. Symptoms include headache, fever, muscle aches, stiff joints, chills, nausea, and vomiting. More severe cases may result in meningitis.
