Over the past few months, outbreaks of Oropouche Virus Disease (OVD) have occurred in multiple countries throughout South America and the Caribbean. Oropouche Virus Disease is caused by the Oropouche virus, which is spread mainly through insect bites, with the main vectors being midges, which are a small type of fly, and also potentially some species of mosquitoes. OVD symptoms usually develop around 3-8 days after a bite from an infected insect, with common symptoms being a fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, among other common symptoms of viral infections. Complications related to OVD can be very serious, with some severe cases leading to meningitis, hemorrhage, or encephalitis. A particular population of concern for the disease is pregnant women and people, as infection in a pregnant person can result in the fetus also becoming infected, and these infections in pregnancy have been linked to serious negative pregnancy and infant outcomes including stillbirth and congenital microcephaly.
Although cases of this disease have occurred in the past in the region, much higher case numbers than ever previously seen and new regions and countries being affected including Bolivia, Brazil and Cuba, led the international community including the Government of Canada to begin monitoring the situation. Cases of Oropouche Virus Disease have also begun to be detected in countries outside of the South America/Caribbean region, due to infected travelers (mainly returning from Cuba) coming back to their home countries. Due to these increased case numbers and particular risks of negative impacts for pregnant women and people, the Government of Canada has released travel recommendations for pregnant women and people going to countries with active outbreaks. The full recommendations can be accessed by clicking here.
The main points of the recommendations are:
- Speak with a healthcare provider at least 6 weeks prior to travel to get personalized recommendations/medical advice
- Practice proper healthcare precautions to prevent insect bites (including using insect repellent, mosquito netting, staying inside of screened in buildings, dressing in clothing that covers skin)
- Seek medical care if develop symptoms of OVD while abroad
- Once back in Canada, monitor for symptoms of OVD and seek medical attention if any symptoms develop
In the document there are also recommendations for health care providers on how to consult, test and follow-up with pregnant patients who may have been exposed to/infected with OVD.
Additionally, other national health organizations have put out recommendations, with links to the recommendations from a few key American organizations found below:
- The American Centre for Disease Control (CDC) (link)
- Recommendations for care providers from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG) (link)
Many Canadian news outlets have also covered the ongoing outbreaks with these stories linked here:
- “Canada warns pregnant travellers of ‘risks’ from Oropouche fever” – Global News National (link)
- “Canada issues new travel advice as Oropouche virus spread by bug bites sparks outbreaks in Cuba and South America” – The Toronto Star (link)
- “A virus spread by tiny insects is on the rise in Brazil and Cuba. Here’s how to protect yourself” – CBC News (link)
- “Canada issues new travel advice amid spread of bug-transmitted disease” – CTV News (link)
The situation will continue to be monitored by members of the RID Program and further pertinent updates/recommendations/resources will be shared on the RID website.