U.S. warns of new virus spread by infected midges, mosquitoes in the Americas

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The United States has issued a warning about the spread of a new virus transmitted through the bites of infected midges and mosquitoes.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released a health alert to inform doctors and public health authorities about the rise in Oropouche virus cases across the Americas.

This virus has already resulted in two deaths since the start of this year, according to a report by Reuters.

The Oropouche virus is primarily spread through the bites of infected midges and mosquitoes. Symptoms of the virus include headache, fever, and muscle aches, with severe cases potentially leading to meningitis.

The CDC reported that between January 1 and August 1, more than 8,000 cases of Oropouche virus were documented, including two fatalities and five instances where the virus was transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy.

Currently, there are no specific treatments or vaccines available for Oropouche virus, heightening concerns about its spread. The CDC has identified Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and Cuba as the countries most affected by the virus. Additionally, travel-related cases have been detected in the United States and Europe, particularly among individuals returning from Cuba and Brazil.

The CDC has recommended that travelers who have visited affected areas and exhibit symptoms consistent with Oropouche virus infection undergo testing and evaluation. The agency also anticipates that cases may emerge in other countries as testing and monitoring efforts expand across the Americas.