08 Mar 2024 | 06:04 PM UTC
Peru: Elevated Oropouche fever activity reported in multiple areas in early March
Elevated Oropouche fever activity reported in multiple areas in Peru in early March. Avoid mosquito and midge bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated Oropouche fever activity in multiple areas in Peru, with 146 cases reported from Jan. 1-Feb. 26. This is compared to the two cases reported in Peru for 2023. Departments reporting the highest disease activity include Loreto, Ucayali, and Madre de Dios. Maynas (74 cases) is the most affected province, followed by Coronel Portillo (38 cases), Tambopata (14 cases), and Mariscal Ramon Castilla (6 cases). 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 8.
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.
There is a risk of Oropouche fever in Peru, with the risk of infection highest January-March. Health authorities reported 94 Oropouche fever cases in six departments (Madre de Dios, Cusco, San Martin, Cajamarca, Loreto, and Ayacucho) between 2016, and 2022, and two cases in 2023. 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.
