Europe has faced a fresh epidemiological threat. In June and July of this year, 19 cases of Oropouche virus (OROV) infection were reported in the European Union. This is the first time that this virus, which has so far spread mainly in the countries of South America, Central America and the Caribbean, has reached Europe.
Oropouche – what is the fresh virus?
Oropouche virus belongs to the household Bunyaviridae and its main vector is insects, primarily mosquitoes of the species Culicoides paraensis. This virus was first identified in 1955 in Brazil, where it caused local epidemics. Since then hundreds of thousands of cases have been reported, mainly in South America. Oropouche is liable for causing oropouche fever, which is manifested by fever, headaches, muscles, joints, and rash.
First cases in Europe
Last week, the European Centre for illness Prevention and Control (ECDC), an independent European Union agency for the investigation of infectious diseases, published a study informing the detection of cases of Oropouche virus infection in 3 European Union countries. A full of 19 cases were identified: 12 in Spain, 5 in Italy and 2 in Germany. Importantly, all infected patients had previously traveled to countries where the virus is endemic – Cuba or Brazil.
An epidemiological threat to Europe
Reaching the Oropouche virus to Europe is simply a worrying signal that may propose a possible hazard of spreading the illness on a larger scale. Although current cases are related to travel, there is simply a concern that the virus can be transmitted locally, especially in areas where there are suitable vectors – that is, mosquitoes that can transmit the virus to humans.
The ECDC underlines the request to rise awareness among doctors and medical personnel throughout the European Union to rapidly and effectively diagnose cases of Oropouche fever. In case of suspected infection, it is essential to immediately notify the applicable public wellness services in order to monitor the situation and prevent possible outbreaks.
Conclusions and recommendations
In light of the emergence of Oropouche virus in Europe, it is crucial that those travelling to endemic countries specified as Cuba and Brazil exercise peculiar care. It is recommended to take protection measures against mosquito bites specified as repellents, wearing long clothes and avoiding areas where mosquitoes are peculiarly active.
Daniel Głogowski
Expert in his field – Publicist, author and social activist. The first articles were published in 1999 for global publishers. For more than 30 years, he has gained his experience through cooperation with the largest editorial offices. In his articles, he seeks to address controversial topics and present first viewpoints that allowed for a deeper knowing of the issues discussed.
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