The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reported the identification of possible cases of mother-to-child transmission of the Oropouche virus (OROV) in Brazil and issued an epidemiological alert for the countries of America to reinforce surveillance given the possibility that similar symptoms may arise in areas where this and other arboviruses circulate.
The OROV virus, usually acquired through the bite of the sandfly and several species of mosquito Culex, It was first detected in Trinidad and Tobago in 1955 and sporadic outbreaks have since been documented in Brazil, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama and Peru.
Oropouche disease It causes sudden fever, headache, joint stiffness, pain and, in some cases, photophobia, persistent nausea and vomiting. which may last from five to seven days. Although severe clinical presentation is rare, it may progress to aseptic meningitis. Complete recovery may take several weeks.
Increase in cases
An increase in the detection of cases has recently been observed in the region, with 7,700 cases reported in five countries. Brazil leads the list with 6,976 cases. The identification of suspected mother-to-child transmission of the virus occurs in the context of this increase in reported cases.
In a recent case, a pregnant woman from Pernambuco presented symptoms of Oropouche during the 30th week of gestation. After laboratory confirmation of OROV infection, the death of the fetus was subsequently reported. A second suspected case was reported in the same Brazilian state, where similar symptoms were observed in a pregnant woman, resulting in a spontaneous abortion.
PAHO indicated that Possible vertical transmission and consequences for the fetus are still under investigation.; However, he asked countries to remain very alert to similar cases in order to better understand this possible route of transmission and its implications.
Guidelines and prevention measures
For now, the PAHO published this week guidelines for the detection and surveillance of Oropouche virus in the event of possible cases of maternal-infant infection, congenital malformations or fetal death. The Organization works closely with countries where cases have been confirmed to share knowledge and experiences.
To control OROV, PAHO calls on countries in the region to implement vector prevention and control measures, including: Strengthen entomological surveillance, reduce populations of mosquitoes and other transmitting insects and educate the population on personal protection measures, especially pregnant women, to prevent bites.
Recommended actions include: protecting homes with fine mesh mosquito nets on doors and windows, wear clothing that covers legs and armsespecially in homes where there are sick people; apply repellents containing DEET, IR3535 or icaridin, and use mosquito nets on beds or furniture where people rest.
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