No risk of Oropouche fever spreading in Russia – health watchdog
MOSCOW. July 26 (Interfax) – There are no risks that Oropouche fever, which has recently killed two people in Brazil, may spread in Russia, as mosquitos carrying this disease do not inhabit Russian territory, the Russian public health and consumer protection watchdog Rospotrebnadzor said.
“Due to the absence of transmission vectors (reservoirs and infection sources) on Russian territory, the spread of Oropouche fever is ruled out. Besides, the Aedes serratus and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitos that carry that disease do not inhabit Russian territory,” a Rospotrebnadzor representative told journalists.
Two people in Brazil become the world’s first recorded fatal victims of Oropouche fever, the watchdog said, citing media reports.
Oropouche fever is a viral infection transmitted by biting mosquitoes mostly in the tropical districts of Central and South America. Its symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint aches and general fatigue. In most cases, the disease will clear up of its own accord and without complications. Hospitalization and special therapy are required in rare cases. There is currently no vaccine for Oropouche fever. It is recommended that preventive measures be taken against mosquito bites in endemic areas.
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
