Metro Vancouverites travelling to sun destinations in the Americas are being warned about the spread of a mosquito-borne virus.
Oropouche fever, known as the sloth fever virus, originated in the Amazon but has started spreading across the Americas at a concerning rate.
The virus was detected outside of the Amazon in previous years but cases were relatively low. Outbreaks are being reported and "the number of cases is higher than expected, and cases are being reported in some areas of Brazil, Bolivia, and in Cuba where they haven’t been before," according to a recent Travel Canada health notice.
Oropouche fever is a disease caused by the Oropouche virus and is "spread to humans through the bite of an infected midge (small fly) or mosquito." The virus cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Symptoms of the Oropouche fever
The Canadian government says Oropouche fever can be mistaken for dengue because the symptoms are similar. These may include:
- fever
- chills
- nausea
- vomiting
- headache
- joint pain
- muscle pain
- sensitivity to light
- pain behind the eyes
Some individuals may also experience a rash.
In rare cases, Oropouche fever can cause severe illness, such as aseptic meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain); it may also result in death.
There is no specific treatment for Oropouche fever but people can get help with symptoms and recovery.
Possible concerns for pregnant travellers
The Oropouche virus may be transmitted from a pregnant person to their unborn baby. It is unclear how the Oropouche may impact the baby, but similar infections, such as Zika, can negatively affect the health of a fetus.
While the Zika virus doesn't often cause severe illness in adults, pregnant women who get infected with the virus may give birth to a baby born with "microcephaly and other congenital malformations as well as preterm birth and miscarriage," says the World Health Organization (WHO).
Health Canada warns pregnant individuals to take extra precautions to protect themselves from insect bites when visiting destinations with Oropouche fever outbreaks.
How can travellers prevent the sloth fever virus?
Mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever, West Nile virus, and Oropouche, don't have vaccines. However, there are several steps travellers can take to prevent infection, such as using repellent, wearing protective clothing, or avoiding areas where mosquitoes or midges are more prone to be.
Most travellers are at "low risk" of getting bitten by an infected insect. However, people who "spend a lot of time outdoors may be at higher risk because they are more likely to come into contact with insects," according to the Canadian government.
Mosquitoes are most active at night, while the midges are most active in the afternoon. Both insects can be found outside and inside of homes.
The best way to protect yourself when travelling is to prevent insect bites at all times.
- Always use an approved insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin. For best results, read and follow all label directions.
- Consider limiting outdoor activities when the midges and mosquitos are most active.
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester. Wear long pants and tucked-in long-sleeved shirts with closed-toe shoes or boots and a hat.
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping (day or night) outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed.
- Consider wearing approved insecticide-treated clothing.
Visit a travel health clinic before your trip
Travellers planning a holiday outside the country should consult a travel health expert before booking tickets. Flights from Vancouver can be difficult to change depending on the fare class booked. For instance, the lowest price typically doesn't allow free changes or may not allow them at all depending on the airline.
Travel Medicine & Vaccination Centre Nurse Director Prab Cockar told V.I.A. in a previous interview that a visit to the clinic can be a "one-stop-shop" for potential travellers. When they book a consultation, a health care professional will break down all of the health risks associated with travelling to their destination, including ones that can be prevented with immunization or treated by prescription and ones that cannot, and even what to consider about drinking local water and eating food.
For diseases that can't be prevented by vaccines or medication, such as dengue or Oropouche fever, the clinic will detail the steps necessary to prevent an infection. Since it is a mosquito-borne illness found mostly in tropical and sub-tropical climates, the best way to prevent getting sick is by covering up, such as wearing protective clothing and sleeping in a mosquito net. People should also use mosquito repellent to keep the harmful pests off them.
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