Spread by infected midges or some breeds of mosquito, the Oropouche virus, known as sloth fever/virus, was detected in Europe following outbreaks in South America.

The common symptoms are fever, severe headache, chills, muscle aches, joint pains, and nausea/vomiting. 

More than 10,000 cases were seen in Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and for the first time in Cuba, according to the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), including two fatalities in Brazil, who had no other known conditions.

Six possible cases of mother-to-child transmission during childbirth were being investigated to understand infections during pregnancy, potential congenital disabilities, and risk of stillbirth due to the virus.

19 cases were reported for the first time in Europe with all affected having travelled to Brazil or Cuba. 

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said the risk for travelers was moderate, while the risk of spread was low as the vector wasn’t found in Europe, and person-to-person transmission hasn’t been seen yet.