The Ministry of Public Health issued a health warning on 28 August 2024 to strengthen surveillance nationwide following the detection of the Oropouche Virus in samples stored at the Dr. Defillo National Reference Laboratory. These samples had initially tested negative for Dengue Virus but were later confirmed to be positive for Oropouche instead.
Oropouche is a vector-borne disease, primarily transmitted through the bite of a midge known as “jején” (Culicoides paraensis), as well as the Culex mosquito, both present in the country.
While there are currently no active cases of the disease, the Ministry has intensified entomological and epidemiological surveillance to monitor any new developments. The alert serves as a preventive measure to monitor and control the virus, with increased surveillance and public awareness campaigns to prevent its spread.
Following guidelines from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), which has issued an epidemiological alert due to the detection of cases in the Americas, Health Minister Víctor Atallah has instructed Provincial Health Departments to increase vector surveillance and continue educating the public on preventive measures such as using mosquito nets and eliminating mosquito and midge (jején) breeding sites.
Specific recommendations have been established for vulnerable groups including pregnant women, infants, and immunocompromised individuals.
As a preventive measure, the public is urged to clear vegetation from yards and gardens and remove any potential breeding sites for mosquitoes or midges.
Symptoms of the Oropouche Virus include sudden fever, headache, joint stiffness, and in some cases, double vision and persistent vomiting.
As there is no specific treatment for this disease, the public is urged to seek immediate medical attention if they experience these symptoms and follow the recommendations issued by health authorities.
The use of mosquito nets during daytime naps is recommended, especially for vulnerable groups, along with other preventive measures similar to those for dengue.
Regionally, as of epidemiological week 29, 8,078 confirmed cases of the Oropouche virus have been reported, with two deaths in countries such as Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, and Peru, according to PAHO/WHO data.
Read more in Spanish:
Ministry of Public Health
Diario Libre
2 September 2024