Photo: Brett_Hondow / iStock / Getty Images
Fort Lauderdale, FL - A concerning outbreak of the Oropouche virus, a mosquito-borne illness, has been identified among travelers returning to the United States from Cuba.
This month, Florida health officials confirmed at least 30 cases of the Oropouche virus, also known as sloth fever, across the state.
There have been no reported deaths and no evidence of widespread transmission within the U.S., however, health officials are urging healthcare providers to be vigilant for symptoms in patients who have recently visited Cuba or other regions where the virus is prevalent.
The Oropouche virus, first discovered in 1955, is a tropical disease transmitted by mosquitoes and biting flies.
It has since been linked to outbreaks in South America, the Caribbean, and other forested regions.
The virus is rarely fatal, with patients exhibiting a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, and skin rashes.
In addition to the 30 cases reported in Florida, several other cases have been identified in the United States and Europe, indicating that the virus's geographic range may be expanding.
To reduce the risk of Oropouche virus infection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers to Cuba and other affected areas take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Pregnant women are also advised to avoid non-essential travel to these regions due to the potential risk of transmission to the fetus.