For the first time, European officials have confirm the presence of a debilitating virus. In June and July, 19 cases of Oopuhue virus disease, commonly known as “sloth virus,” were report in Italy, Germany, and Spain.
Similar to the Zika virus, which is transmit by mosquitoes and was initially discover in Uganda, this germ is currently under investigation to determine if it can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Research is ongoing to assess its potential impact, just as studies were conduct for the Zika virus.
The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has report instances of the Oopuhue virus in travelers returning to Europe from Cuba and Brazil. To date, Italy has record five cases, Germany has report two, and Spain has document twelve cases.
The condition, known as the sloth virus, is believe to have originate in pale-throat sloth virus (Bradypus tridactylid). Additionally, wild birds and certain non-human primates are also consider potential hosts for this virus.
At present, there is no available vaccine for this virus. Fortunately, the majority of individuals experience a high rate of recovery, and deaths are exceptionally uncommon. Most people typically recover within a few days to a month. Despite this, the situation remains a significant concern.
The Oopuhue virus may present symptoms akin to those of the Zika virus, such as muscle pain, sudden onset of fever, eye discomfort, light sensitivity, rash, and nausea.
In roughly 4% of instances, it has been observe to impact the nervous system, leading to inflammation in the areas surrounding the spinal cord and brain.
Additionally, Brazil has recently identify several instances of the virus potentially being transmit from mother to fetus during pregnancy.
Infections have been link to adverse outcomes, including pregnancy loss and below-average head size in infants. However, researchers have yet to establish a definitive connection.
The Oopuhue virus was first identify in Trinidad and Tobago in 1955. Over the years, it has cause outbreaks across South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. This year, new cases have been report for the first time in Brazil, Bolivia, Cuba, Colombia, and Peru.
The primary transmission of the disease occurs through bites from midges, specifically the Culicids parenesis species. Additionally, certain mosquitoes have the potential to transmit the
virus to humans.
European midges, which are known for spreading certain diseases, are not present in Europe. There is limit evidence to suggest that midges and mosquitoes in Europe are capable of transmitting this virus.”
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has classified the risk of infection for European citizens as “moderate,” primarily due to the elevate case numbers report in the Americas.
The ECDC recommends that travelers to affect regions take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of bites.
To ensure safety, it’s important to use insect repellent and dress in long-sleeve shirts and pants when spending time outdoors.
For indoor spaces that lack screens or air conditioning, using bed nets treat with insecticides is highly recommend.
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