The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs informs the public of the confirmation of two cases of Oropouche viral illness in Barbados as reported by local authorities on the island. Oropouche fever is a vector-borne disease transmitted through the bite of midges, which are small flies. Certain species of Culex mosquitoes may also transmit the virus. The Oropouche virus was first discovered in 1955 but since December of 2023, an increase in the number of cases has been reported in South America and the Caribbean, including areas where the virus was not previously detected.
Oropouche viral infection commonly presents with a clinical picture very similar to dengue viral disease, characterised by high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, pain behind the eyes and rash; nausea and vomiting may also occur. Symptoms usually last between 2-7 days and most people make a full recovery within a few days. Unfortunately, just under 5% of infected persons may develop more serious diseases and present with inflammation of the brain and/or bleeding. Death from Oropouche virus is rare.
Between 1 January and 25 November 2024, approximately 11,634 confirmed Oropouche cases, including two deaths, have been reported in the Region of the Americas. There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for the Oropouche virus and management is based on presenting signs and symptoms.
Similar to other vector-borne diseases, the prevention of the Oropouche virus entails strengthening measures to reduce the vector population. These measures include:
· Using fine-mesh mosquito nets on doors and windows to prevent the entry of vectors.
· Sleeping under a mosquito net and wearing long-sleeved clothing and long pants, especially in homes with a sick person.
· Applying insect repellents to exposed areas of skin.
· Reduce breeding of the mosquito by ensuring that water storage containers (such as drums, tanks and pots) are cleaned and emptied frequently.
To date, there have been no recorded cases of Oropouche virus in Saint Lucia and the Ministry of Health continues surveillance activities to ensure timely detection of the virus. While there is no capacity to test for the Oropouche virus locally, testing support is available through the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs will continue to monitor the situation and provide frequent updates to the public.