Oropouche Virus (OROV)
Source: News Medical
GS II: Issues relating to the development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
Overview
- Details of Oropouche Virus (OROV)
Why in the News?
In a recent study published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, researchers, investigated the presence of replication-competent Oropouche virus (OROV) (an arbovirus causing flu-like illness, transmitted by biting midges and mosquitoes) in the semen of a traveler diagnosed with Oropouche fever, highlighting potential risks for sexual transmission.
Details of Oropouche Virus (OROV)
- Oropouche virus (OROV) belongs to the Simbu serogroup of the viral genus Orthobunyavirus in the Peribunyaviridae family.
- It was first detected in 1955 in Trinidad and Tobago, near the Oropouche River, where a febrile forest worker fell ill.
1. Transmission and Reservoirs:
- OROV is primarily spread by infected biting midges (Culicoides species) and, to a lesser extent, mosquitoes.
- Natural reservoirs include sloths, non-human primates, and birds.
2. Clinical Presentation:
- Oropouche fever typically manifests as follows:
- Abrupt Onset: Patients experience sudden fever (38-40°C), severe headache, chills, myalgia, and arthralgia.
- Similar to Other Arboviruses: Clinical features often mimic dengue, chikungunya, Zika viruses, or malaria.
- Rash and Other Symptoms: Photophobia, dizziness, eye pain, nausea, vomiting, and a maculopapular rash (starting on the trunk and extending to extremities).
- Recurrent Symptoms: In up to 60% of cases, symptoms may reoccur a few days or weeks later.
3. Epidemiology:
- OROV is endemic to the Amazon basin.
- Prior to 2000, outbreaks occurred in Brazil, Panama, and Peru.
- Recent cases have been identified in Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama, and Peru.
- In June 2024, Cuba reported its first confirmed Oropouche case.
4. Diagnosis and Treatment:
- No specific vaccines or antiviral medicines exist for OROV.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation, travel history, and laboratory findings (lymphopenia, leukopenia, elevated CRP, and mild liver enzyme elevation).
- Supportive care is essential.
5. Prevention:
- Personal protective measures (avoiding bites) remain crucial.
- Currently, there is no evidence of local transmission in the United States.
In summary, Oropouche virus poses a significant public health challenge, especially in endemic regions. Vigilance, research, and international cooperation are essential to combat this emerging arbovirus.
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