Correio newspaper | Bahia records nine cases of Oropouche Fever, a viral disease similar to dengue

Seven cases were detected in Valença and two in Laje

Published on March 26, 2024 at 11:09

The Bahia State Health Department (Sesab) detected nine cases of Oropouche Fever, a disease transmitted by mosquito bites and which causes headaches, muscle and joint pain, as well as nausea and diarrhea. The cases were detected in Valença, with seven records, and in Laje, with two. Both municipalities are in the south of Bahia.

The disease is not considered endemic in the region, that is, there is not a high incidence of cases in a limited space. To date, there are no records of direct transmission between people.

The State Epidemiological Surveillance Directorate is carrying out additional investigations to better understand the scenario of this disease in Bahia. Despite the confirmed cases, there is no indication of an imminent threat to public health, considering the non-endemic nature of the virus in the region.

Oropouche Fever is a viral disease transmitted in the urban environment by Culicoides paraensis, known as maruim or sandfly. Symptoms include fever, headache and muscle pain, similar to those of other arboviruses, which highlights the importance of an accurate diagnosis.

There is no specific treatment for Oropouche Fever, with clinical management focused on relieving symptoms. The Secretariat reinforces the importance of laboratory diagnosis for effective monitoring of cases and highlights epidemiological surveillance actions to monitor the situation.

The population is encouraged to continue with preventive measures against mosquito bites, such as the use of repellents and clothing that minimizes skin exposure, in addition to seeking medical advice if necessary.