The state of Bahia confirmed, this Tuesday (2), 19 people infected with oropouche fever. According to information released by the Health Department of the State of Bahia (Sesab), 9 cases were registered in the city of Valença and others 10 in Laje.
The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, mainly Culicoides paraensisknown as maruim, and at Culex quinquefasciatusthe mosquito. The records in the state are considered atypical, as the disease is not considered endemic in the region.
Symptoms last around two to seven days and include fever, severe headache, back pain, lower back pain and joint pain. Patients may also experience dizziness, pain behind the eyes, rashes, chills, photophobia, nausea, and vomiting.
What is ‘Oropouche Fever’?
‘Oropouche Fever’ is a viral disease transmitted in the urban environment by Culicoides paraensis, known as maruim or sandfly. To date, there are no records of direct transmission between people. Symptoms include fever, headache and muscle pain, similar to those of other arboviruses, which highlights the importance of an accurate diagnosis.
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.
Treatments and prevention
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.
Sesab advises that the population continues 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.
