Oropouche Virus Hits U.S.: 30 Cases in Florida Linked to Cuba Travel

Aug 27, 2024, 07:11 PM

The Oropouche virus, also known as sloth fever, has emerged as a growing health concern in the United States. The virus, which is spread by infected biting midges and mosquitoes, has been identified in 21 U.S. travelers who recently returned from Cuba. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 20 cases were found in Florida and one in New York State. Florida's health department, however, confirmed 30 cases in the state, all linked to travel from Cuba. The virus, originally confined to the Amazon region, has been expanding its range since late 2023. It poses a significant health risk as it has no specific treatment or vaccine available. Symptoms include fever and muscle aches, and the virus has been responsible for at least two deaths in Brazil. The CDC is monitoring the outbreak and has issued warnings to travelers visiting the Caribbean and South America, where the risk of contracting the virus is higher.