Oropouche Virus Outbreak in Cuba: Travel Health Notice
Background
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel health notice for individuals traveling to Cuba due to an outbreak of the Oropouche virus.
A Level 2 Travel health notice means travelers should practice enhanced precautions for this destination.
Travel Notice
According to the travel notice issued on August 16, multiple cases of Oropouche have recently been reported in US and European travelers returning from travel to Cuba, indicating there is ongoing risk.
Transmission and Symptoms
Oropouche is spread by the bite of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes. The CDC advises all travelers to take steps to prevent bug bites during travel, to protect themselves from infection. It says pregnant people should reconsider non-essential travel to Cuba.
Symptoms of Oropouche include headache, fever, muscle aches, stiff joints, nausea, vomiting, chills, or sensitivity to light. Severe cases may result in neuroinvasive disease such as meningitis. Symptoms typically start 3–10 days after being bitten and last 3–6 days. Most people recover without long-term effects. There is no specific treatment for Oropouche.
What to Do if You Develop Symptoms
The CDC says travelers who develop high fever, headache, muscle aches, stiff joints, nausea, vomiting, chills, or sensitivity to light during or within 2 weeks after travel should:
- Seek medical care immediately and tell their healthcare provider when and where they traveled. Learn how to seek medical care during travel.
- Not take aspirin or other NSAIDS (e.g., ibuprofen) to reduce the risk of bleeding.
- Continue to prevent bug bites during the first week of illness to avoid further spread in areas where mosquitoes or biting midges are active.
Global Situation
The CDC currently has a Level 1 Travel health notice for Oropouche virus for parts of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, which reported cases, although the case numbers are declining.
Conclusion
It is essential for travelers to Cuba to take necessary precautions to prevent Oropouche virus infection. Follow the CDC’s guidelines and take necessary steps to protect yourself and others.
FAQs
Q: What is the Oropouche virus?
A: The Oropouche virus is a type of virus that is spread by the bite of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes.
Q: What are the symptoms of Oropouche virus infection?
A: Symptoms of Oropouche virus infection include headache, fever, muscle aches, stiff joints, nausea, vomiting, chills, or sensitivity to light.
Q: How is Oropouche virus infection treated?
A: There is no specific treatment for Oropouche virus infection. Most people recover without long-term effects.
Q: Is there a vaccine available for Oropouche virus?
A: No, there is no vaccine available for Oropouche virus.