A potentially deadly virus known as “Sloth Fever,” caused by the Oropouche (Oropo) virus, has recently made its way to the United States, sparking concern among health officials. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning following a series of cases reported in Florida, with the virus typically being endemic to South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The emergence of this virus in the U.S. marks a significant development in public health, raising questions about its potential spread and the measures necessary to contain it.
What is Sloth Fever?
Sloth Fever, as it is colloquially known, is caused by the Oropo virus, a virus primarily spread through the bites of infected midges—tiny biting insects that are common in tropical regions. While mosquitoes are also capable of carrying the virus, the primary vector remains midges. The virus was first detected in 1955 in Trinidad and Tobago and has since been a persistent issue in certain regions of South America.
The virus derives its informal name, “Sloth Fever,” from its association with sloths, which are frequently found in areas where the virus is prevalent. However, the name is somewhat misleading, as the virus is not transmitted through direct contact with sloths but rather through insect bites. Sloths, along with non-human primates and birds, serve as reservoirs for the virus, which can lead to widespread transmission in affected areas.
Recent Spread to the United States
In recent months, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of Oropo virus cases, with infections being reported outside of the Amazon basin, where the virus is typically found. This year alone, Florida has reported 20 travel-related cases of the virus, nine of which were recorded just last week. These cases represent a significant jump from previous years, highlighting the growing threat posed by the virus.
According to data, there have been more than 8,000 confirmed cases of Oropo virus between January 1st and August 1st of this year, a staggering increase compared to the 832 confirmed cases reported in 2023. This uptick in cases has prompted the CDC to take action, issuing a health advisory and urging the public to be vigilant, especially in regions where the virus is known to spread.
Symptoms and Risks
The Oropo virus can cause a range of symptoms, with about 60% of those infected experiencing mild to moderate symptoms such as fever, sensitivity to light, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, chills, and skin rash. However, in some cases, the virus can lead to more severe symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, hemorrhagic symptoms, and meningitis—an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. In rare cases, these severe symptoms can be fatal.
Among the reported cases this year, there have been two deaths in Brazil and five cases of transmission associated with fetal death or birth defects. The CDC has issued specific warnings for pregnant individuals, highlighting the potential risk of transmission from mother to fetus during pregnancy. This has led to increased caution for those traveling to areas where the virus is prevalent, with the CDC recommending that pregnant people avoid non-essential travel to affected regions such as Cuba and Brazil.
Prevention and Response
Currently, there are no specific treatments or vaccines available for the Oropo virus. As a result, the best defense against Sloth Fever is prevention. Health experts recommend using insect repellents and ensuring that doors and windows are screened to prevent bites from midges and mosquitoes. The CDC’s advisory emphasizes the importance of taking these precautions, especially in areas where the virus has been detected.
As the situation develops, the CDC and other health organizations are closely monitoring the spread of the Oropo virus in the United States. While the virus is new to the U.S., the rapid increase in cases and the potential severity of the illness underscore the need for public awareness and preventive measures.
