Clinical Manifestations

Oropouche Fever: Signs, Symptoms, and Transmission

Clinical Manifestations

Oropouche fever is characterized by an abrupt onset of symptoms, typically including:

• Fever
• Severe headache
• Chills
• Myalgia (muscle pain)
• Arthralgia (joint pain)

Complications

While most cases of Oropouche fever resolve within a few days, some individuals may develop complications, such as:

• Meningoencephalitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord)
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Guillain-Barré syndrome (an autoimmune disorder that affects the nervous system)

Transmission

Oropouche fever is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Haemagogus janthinomys.

Risk Factors

Individuals living in or traveling to areas where Oropouche fever is prevalent are at higher risk of infection, including:

• Rainforests and tropical regions
• Areas with poor sanitation and drainage
• Individuals working outdoors or in rural settings

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention

• Use mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
• Use mosquito nets when sleeping.
• Reduce mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water around homes and yards.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for Oropouche fever. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, such as fever, pain, and discomfort, and preventing complications.