Sloth Fever Virus Hits Europe

A strange virus called ‘sloth fever’ has recently shown up in Europe, and it’s making headlines. The official name for it is the Oropouche virus, and it’s named after the pale-throated sloths where it was first discovered. Doctors are on alert as they warn about its rapid spread.

This virus, mainly carried by tiny insects like midges and mosquitoes, has already infected 19 people across Europe in just two months. Southern Europe appears to be at higher risk, with cases reported in several countries, including twelve in one unnamed country, five in another, and two in Italy.

The first recorded deaths from this virus happened just last month in Brazil, involving two young women who had no other underlying health issues. The symptoms of sloth fever often mimic those of dengue fever, including headache, fever, joint pain, and nausea. Most people do recover, but there are rising concerns about the potential risks it poses to pregnant women.

Dr. Paul Hunter, a professor at the University of East Anglia, suggests that the number of infections in Europe might be higher than what’s currently reported. Meanwhile, Dr. Danny Altmann from Imperial College highlighted the need for awareness, especially with the virus spreading in the Americas.

The European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) has stressed the importance of precautions for travelers to affected regions. This includes wearing insect repellent and long clothing to prevent bites. The virus is making its way from the Americas, where an alarming 8,000 cases have been reported this year.

Experts are linked climate change to the spread of the Oropouche virus. Increased temperatures and habitat destruction mean that the insects that carry the virus are coming into closer contact with humans. With sloths being displaced from their natural homes, they are now more likely to bring these infections closer to urban areas.