Bolivia: 22 Oropouche virus cases reported in La Paz
The head of the Epidemiology Unit of the Departmental Health Service report 22 Oropouche virus cases in the La Paz department, according to a local media report.
The cases were reported in Irupana (20), and one each in Cajuata and Chulumani.
“As Headquarters we have carried out the survey of the entomological index, in which a high rate of vector infestation greater than 50% is observed in what is at home,” Department Head, Javier Mamani explained.
The Headquarters deployed personnel to the affected regions to carry out an epidemiological and entomological investigation, fumigation and focus blockade, training of personnel, clinical monitoring of patients, among other tasks.
Oropouche fever cases rise in Brazil
Oropouche fever is a disease caused by Oropouche virus. It is spread through the bites of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes.
Symptoms of Oropouche fever are similar to dengue and include headache, fever, muscle aches, stiff joints, nausea, vomiting, chills, or sensitivity to light. Severe cases may result in meningitis.
Symptoms typically start 4–8 days after being bitten and last 3–6 days. Most people recover without long-term effects. Treatment is supportive; no specific medications or vaccines are available.
In March, the Pan American Health Organization warned of an increase in cases of oropouche fever in the Region of the Americas.