Peru Oropouche outbreak prompts health alert from US Embassy in Lima
The US Embassy in Lima, Peru issued a health alert this week due to the increase in Oropouche fever cases in the country.
Peruvian authorities have reported Oropouche virus cases in several regions. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reports that 930 cases of Oropouche have been confirmed in Peru as of August 31, 2024. The PAHO update noted that cases were found in the departments of Loreto (454 cases), Madre de Dios (312 cases), Ucayali (148 cases), Huanuco (12 cases), Junin (2 cases), San Martin (1 case), and Tumbes (1 case).
Nearly 10,000 cases have been reported in Latin America and the Caribbean, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Canada and the US.
Oropouche is a viral disease spread by the bite of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, stiff joints, nausea, vomiting, and/or sensitivity to light, and are often mistaken for dengue fever. Symptoms usually begin 3-10 days after being bitten and last 3-6 days. About 60% of patients have recurrent symptoms within days to weeks after initial illness resolution. While the illness is usually mild, the Oropouche virus can cause severe neuroinvasive disease.
The US Embassy offers the following advice:
Follow CDC guidance and take steps to prevent bug bites as much as possible.
Pregnant travelers should discuss potential risks and travel plans with their healthcare provider.
Review the CDC page on Oropouche .
Seek medical treatment if you believe you may be infected. While the U.S. Embassy cannot advocate for medical practitioners, a list of local doctors may be found on our website.