For the first time, Europe has reported cases of Sloth virus or Oropouche virus disease, a Zika-like illness typically found in the Americas. Recent cases have emerged in Spain, Italy, and Germany, primarily among travelers returning from Cuba and Brazil.

Often dubbed the “sloth virus” or “sloth fever,” Oropouche virus is associated with the pale-throated sloth (Bradypus tridactylus), believed to be a major host. The virus is transmitted to humans through bites from midges and mosquitoes, which pick up the virus from infected sloths.

Health officials are currently scrutinizing whether the virus might cause complications in pregnancy similar to those linked with Zika virus. This follows reports from Brazil of possible maternal-fetal transmission resulting in severe outcomes such as pregnancy loss and microcephaly, although data is still inconclusive.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) confirmed that 19 cases were detected in Europe during June and July. Fortunately, the prognosis for those infected is generally favorable, with severe outcomes being extremely rare.

Symptoms of Oropouche virus are akin to those of Zika, including sudden fever, muscle pain, sensitivity to light, eye pain, vomiting, and rash. In about 4% of cases, the virus can impact the nervous system, leading to inflammation around the brain and spinal cord. However, most patients recover within days to a month.

While the virus has not been observed spreading from person to person, the midges responsible for transmission are not found in Europe. The ECDC notes that there’s currently no evidence suggesting that European midges or mosquitoes could spread the virus. This, coupled with the virus’s non-human-to-human transmission, makes local outbreaks in Europe highly unlikely.

Travelers to regions where the virus is prevalent should remain cautious. The ECDC advises using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and considering insecticide-treated bed nets in areas lacking adequate screening or air-conditioning. As of now, no vaccine is available for Oropouche virus.