Oropouche Virus

Oropouche virus (OROV) causes a disease called Oropouche fever, also known as "sloth fever." It's a viral illness found mostly in urban areas of South America. Since 1960, more than 30 outbreaks have been reported, especially in Brazil and other parts of Latin America.

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Oropouche virus is one of the most common types of viruses in the orthobunyavirus group. It spreads to people

mainly through the bites of tiny insects called biting midges. Some types of mosquitoes can also carry the virus.

Most people who get infected with Oropouche virus will have symptoms, and these can sometimes come back later. There are no vaccines or treatments for this virus, so the best way to stay safe is to avoid being bitten by biting midges and mosquitoes.

Page last updated 9/5/24

 

  • How is Oropouche Spread?

    Oropouche virus (OROV) is spread to people primarily by the bite of an infected biting midge; a tiny fly often called a “no-see-um” (Culicoides paraensis). In some cases, mosquitoes, specifically Culex quinquefasciatus, may also transmit OROV through a bite. Both biting midges and mosquitoes can be found in Georgia.

  • What are the symptoms of Oropouche?

    Common symptoms of Oropouche virus (OROV) include a sudden fever, severe headache, chills, muscle and joint pain. You may also experience sensitivity to light, dizziness, pain behind the eyes, nausea, vomiting, and a rash. These symptoms usually last between 2 and 7 days but can come back after a few days or weeks. Most people recover in a few days to about a month.

    In rare cases (less than 5%), serious symptoms can develop, such as meningitis (inflammation around the brain and spinal cord), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), or bleeding. Death from OROV is very rare.

    OROV symptoms can be similar to those of dengue, chikungunya, Zika, or malaria. If you think you may have OROV, it's important to see your healthcare provider.

  • What is the treatment for Oropouche virus?

    There is no specific medicine to treat Oropouche virus. You can manage symptoms by resting, drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen to lower fever and ease pain. If symptoms are more serious, you may need additional medical care or hospitalization.

    Avoid taking aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) until dengue has been ruled out to lower the risk of bleeding.

  • How do I prevent getting Oropouche virus?

    The best way to prevent Oropouche virus (OROV) is to avoid bites from biting midges and mosquitoes. If you’re traveling to an area where the virus is common, you can protect yourself by:

    • Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants
    • Staying in places with air conditioning or window and door screens
    • Using insect repellent approved by the EPA that works against flies and biting midges (Culicoides)

    If you are pregnant, the CDC advises talking to a healthcare provider before traveling or avoiding nonessential travel to areas where OROV is spreading, as there may be a higher risk to your baby. For more information on how to prevent the virus, visit the CDC OROV Prevention page.

  • How is Oropouche virus diagnosed?

    Only a healthcare provider can diagnose Oropouche virus through lab tests. If you think you might have the virus, contact your provider as soon as possible, as the window for testing is limited and it’s best to get tested within 10 days of when your symptoms first started. The Georgia Department of Public Health does not offer direct testing but can help facilitate testing through the CDC if you are approved. To be approved for testing, you must first see your healthcare provider.

    A doctor can make a preliminary diagnosis based on your symptoms, recent travel, and activities that may have exposed you to the virus. If Oropouche is suspected, your provider may order tests to rule out other diseases like dengue, Zika, chikungunya, or malaria. They may also take a blood sample for Oropouche testing, and in rare cases of severe symptoms, they might collect spinal fluid for testing.

    If you are a healthcare provider with questions about testing, please contact your state or local health department.

  • Where can I get more information about Oropouche?

    If you believe you have OROV, please consult your healthcare provider. You can also use the following links to learn more.

    About Oropouche | Oropouche | CDC

    For information on local surveillance, contact your local health district or the Georgia Department of Public Health, Epidemiology Section at 404-657-2588 and ask to speak to the Vectorborne Disease Team or Epidemiologist On Call.