Oropouche Virus: About
Oropouche virus is spread to people primarily by infected biting midges (also called “no-see-ums"). Some mosquitoes can also spread the virus.
Oropouche virus has been found in parts of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Cases of Oropouche virus have been reported in the U.S. among people who have recently traveled to an area with Oropouche. Wisconsin residents who travel to an area where Oropouche virus is found are at risk for infection.
Oropouche virus is preventable. For country-specific travel information and recommendations, visit the CDC’s (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Travelers’ Health page.
Oropouche virus is primarily spread to people through the bite of an infected biting midge (“no-see-um”), or an infected mosquito.
Biting midges and mosquitoes become infected with the virus after biting an infected animal or person.
Oropouche can also be spread from a pregnant person to their fetus during pregnancy. It is not known, however, how often this occurs.
Oropouche virus is preventable. Visit the CDC's Preventing Oropouche page for more information.
Symptoms usually begin three to 10 days after being bitten by an infected insect
Most people infected with Oropouche virus will develop symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Severe headache
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
Symptoms usually last less than a week, but can often reoccur a few days or even weeks later.
Rarely, some people with Oropouche virus will develop more severe disease. Severe Oropouche virus disease can cause swelling in the brain (encephalitis) or spinal cord (meningitis), or bleeding.
Visit the CDC’s Symptoms of Oropouche page for more information.
There is currently no specific medicine to treat Oropouche virus.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (for example, Tylenol), may be given to relieve the symptoms. Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can increase the risk of bleeding. It is important to get plenty of rest and drink fluids.
In severe cases, patients may need to be hospitalized to receive supportive treatment.
If you or a family member has recently traveled to an area with Oropouche and believe you may have Oropouche virus, contact your doctor.