Given the occurrence of cases in Brazil, the State Ministry of Health (SES), through the Central Laboratory of Public Health (Lacen), has been monitoring the presence and behavior of Oropouche fever since October 2023 in Sergipe. This disease is an infection caused by the Orthobunyavirus Oropoucheense (OROV), and is mainly transmitted by the mosquito Culicoides paraenses, commonly known as the maruim or sand fly.
According to the SES’s health surveillance director, Marco Aurelio Gois, the state has not only been monitoring the Urubuche situation, but also cases related to dengue, Zika and chikungunya. “Now it is the monitoring of cases, since we have had two confirmations of suspected dengue, but they had a benign evolution, since the patients’ condition has been resolved. We continue to process negative samples to try to identify the distribution pattern in the state,” the director explained.
It is important to highlight that surveillance actions have been expanded in the municipalities of Sergipe to monitor the behavior of both arboviruses that may worsen and cases of oropouche and mayaro viruses that have been recorded in the national territory.
Important Precautions
Although it is considered a mild disease, it is necessary to take some preventive measures against Oropush fever, such as wearing long clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants sometimes with increased mosquito spread and using repellents, to increase the risk of preventing infection.
“Another special concern we have increased is for pregnant women. Since we do not fully understand how this virus affects pregnancy, whether with malformations, premature birth or miscarriage, we have intensified our efforts so that pregnant women can protect themselves even more with insect repellents,” Marco warned.
symptoms
The symptoms of oropouche are similar to those of dengue and chikungunya, such as fever, headache and joint pain. If a person develops any symptoms, it is advisable to seek a health service closer to their home.
*With information from SES
Emily Brontë is a journalist and feature writer specialising in culture, entertainment, literature, and current affairs. She is dedicated to producing clear, accurate reporting that helps readers stay informed about developments in the UK and around the world.
