MADRID, Spain.- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States They issued an alert due to the Oropouche virus outbreak in Cuba. The alert, recently updated on the CDC’s official website, recommends that U.S. citizens traveling to or on the island take extreme precautions to avoid infection.
The Level 2 alert indicates a moderate risk for travelers and urges them to increase protective measures, such as using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing and staying in places with mosquito nets on doors and windows. In addition, it is recommended to avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
Given the rapid spread of the virus and limited access to advanced medical care in Cuba, CDC suggests that travelers consider postponing non-essential travel to the island until the outbreak is under control, especially pregnant women. If travel is unavoidable, these travelers should strictly follow the Oropouche prevention recommendations.
For those already in Cuba, the CDC advises to closely monitor their health and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of Oropouche fever appear. And for those who have contracted the disease, it is recommended not to take medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce the risk of bleeding.
Oropouche cases in Europe imported from Cuba
Last week it was confirmed in the Canary Islands first imported case Oropouche virus. The affected person is a 49-year-old man, resident in Gran Canaria, who began to experience symptoms compatible with the infection after returning from a trip to Cuba.
Previously, cases had been reported in other regions of Spain, including Galicia, Andalusia, the Basque Country and Madrid, all in travellers from Cuba. In July, the European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) confirmed the importation of six cases of the virus into Europe, all acquired during stays on the island, according to its weekly report from 6 to 12 July.
Oropouche virus
The Oropouche fever It is a disease caused by the virus of the same name (OROV). It is transmitted to humans by the bite of Culicoides mosquitoes, mainly of the species Culicoides paraensis.
Although this species of sandfly has not been detected in Cuba, the mosquito is found in the territory. Culex quinquefasciatuswhich also transmits the disease.
The Oropouche virus presents symptoms similar to dengue fever, such as high fever, headache and joint pain. Although it is rarely fatal, its symptoms can be debilitating and last for several weeks, significantly affecting the quality of life of those infected.
Follow our channel WhatsApp. Receive the information from CubaNet on your cell phone through Telegram.
