Cuba's Oropouche Virus Outbreak Reaches 74 People

The Ministry of Public Health of the Republic of Cuba recently reported Oropouche virus disease outbreaks in two provinces.

In late May 2024, the Ministry of Public Health reported 74 Oropouche cases from the Provinces of Santiago de Cuba (n=54) and Cienfuegos (n=20). 

According to the latest Disease Outbreak News from the World Health Organization (WHO), this is the first disease detection in Cuba. As a result, the population is likely highly susceptible, and there is a significant risk of additional cases being detected.

As of June 11, 2024, the WHO says there is no evidence of human-to-human Oropouche virus transmission or confirmed deaths in Cuba.

While the Oropouche virus is relatively unknown, it is an arboviral disease transmitted to humans through midge (small fly) or mosquito bites.

The most frequently reported symptoms were fever, lower back pain, headache, loss of appetite, vomiting, weakness, joint pain, and eye pain. Of the 74 confirmed cases, the median age is 34, including a group of cases in 15 to 19-year-olds.

All cases showed signs of recovery between the third and fourth day after the onset of symptoms.

The WHO says no specific antiviral treatment or preventive vaccine for Oropouche virus disease exists.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) previously confirmed that Oropouche cases have been detected over the past ten years in some South American countries, such as Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru. More than half a million Oropouche cases have been reported since 1955. 

The U.S. CDC recently issued a Level 1 Travel Advisory, which recommends that people seek medical care if they develop high fever, headache, muscle aches, stiff joints, nausea, vomiting, chills, or sensitivity to light during or after travel to an Oropouche outbreak area.

There is a risk of Oropouche spreading internationally as Cuba is an international tourist destination, with ample travel to cities in Florida.