The province of Matanzas has activated an alert to monitor cases of fever and diarrhea following the confirmation of the Oropouche virus in Cuban territory, an emerging disease in the Americas.
Dr. Amancio Martínez Morejón, deputy director of the Matanzas Provincial Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology, told the newspaper Girón that several municipalities in the province are experiencing an increase in symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, which are associated with the disease, although no cases have been confirmed. "The Oropouche virus has an incubation period of five to seven days, with symptoms similar to dengue, such as myalgia (muscle pain), arthralgia (joint pain), headache, and photophobia (sensitivity to light). So far, there are no severe cases or fatalities due to this virus. It is transmitted by bites from midges and the Culex mosquito, which thrive in poor sanitary conditions," explained Martínez Morejón.
The specialist urged the population to take preventive measures, especially conducting self-surveillance, to avoid contagion. He mentioned that although the first cases of Oropouche fever have been diagnosed in Santiago de Cuba health areas, "the conditions are ripe for the virus to appear in Matanzas due to our multiple exchange relations," warned the doctor.
He added that with rising temperatures and the onset of the hurricane and rainy season starting in June, a proliferation of vectors such as mosquitoes, flies, cockroaches, and rats is expected, which could increase the ailments caused by these insects.
Understanding the Oropouche Virus Situation in Matanzas
In light of the recent alert in Matanzas concerning fever and diarrhea cases linked to the Oropouche virus, here are some key questions and answers to help understand the situation better:
What is the Oropouche virus?
The Oropouche virus is an emerging disease in the Americas with symptoms similar to dengue, such as muscle pain, joint pain, headache, and sensitivity to light. It has an incubation period of five to seven days.
How is the Oropouche virus transmitted?
The virus is transmitted through bites from midges and the Culex mosquito, which develop in unsanitary conditions.
What preventive measures can be taken against the Oropouche virus?
Preventive measures include conducting self-surveillance, maintaining sanitary conditions to reduce vector proliferation, and avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents and protective clothing.