Health officials in New York City are on high alert as they monitor the growing cases of a potentially deadly virus known as “sloth fever.” The recent surge of nine new cases linked to international travel in Florida has raised concerns among Americans returning from their summer vacations. This virus, caused by the Oropouche virus spread by small biting flies and mosquitoes, has also been reported in New York, according to the state health department.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) recently issued a warning about the alarming changes in the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the disease. There has been a rise in cases in areas where the Oropouche virus was not previously considered endemic, leading to the first-ever reports of deaths associated with sloth fever. Health officials are also investigating potential transmission of the virus resulting in fetal deaths or health issues at birth.
The risk of the virus spreading further across the Americas, including North and South America, is considered high by PAHO. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued advisories to healthcare providers and public health authorities to address the expanding threat. While there is no evidence of local transmission in the U.S., the CDC warns that the virus can be transmitted by biting midges and certain mosquitoes in urban areas.
According to CDC reports, the outbreak of Oropouche virus is currently concentrated in endemic areas and new regions outside the Amazon basin, including countries like Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Columbia, and Cuba. The symptoms of sloth fever are similar to other mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, making it challenging to diagnose. Individuals infected with the Oropouche virus may experience symptoms like fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, nausea, and fatigue.
Although the illness is generally mild, a small percentage of patients may develop severe complications such as hemorrhages or neuroinvasive diseases like meningitis. Treatment for sloth fever involves rest, fluids, and pain medication, as there are no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines available. In South American countries alone, over 8,000 cases of Oropouche virus have been reported this year.
In response to concerns about mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus, authorities in New York City have begun targeted mosquito spraying in certain neighborhoods. The recent hospitalization of Dr. Anthony Fauci due to West Nile virus has heightened awareness about the importance of preventive measures against mosquito-borne diseases. As health officials continue to monitor the spread of sloth fever and other viruses, it is crucial for individuals to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites and reduce the risk of infection.