A New Threat on the Rise: Oropouche Viral Infection

The Oropouche virus (OROV), a member of the Simbu group's Orthobunyaviruses, is a vector-borne virus with three single-stranded negative-sense RNA segments and a spherical lipid sheath. It is mainly spread by Culicoides paraensis midges and, to a lesser extent, Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes. OROV, first reported in Trinidad and Tobago in 1955, has since spread to Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, causing serological epidemics and recently invading nonendemic regions. The severity of the disease can vary from cold symptoms to severe illness, such as meningitis. Recent outbreaks in Acre and Brazil have emphasized severe fetal outcomes such as microcephaly and congenital anomalies as a result of vertical transmission of the virus. Deforestation, urbanization, and climate change contribute to the major spread of OROV by increasing vector populations and promoting the transfer of the virus. The diagnosis is difficult due to symptoms such as those of dengue and chikungunya. Laboratory diagnosis involves two techniques: serological and molecular; nested reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and other advanced methods include viral isolation and immunofluorescence. Vaccine development is still an active area of research; potential vaccine candidates include VSV-OROV and epitope-based receptor mimics. Recent travel-related cases in the US and Europe highlight the need for improved surveillance and prevention strategies, highlighting the importance of vector control and personal protective measures. This review sheds light on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic challenges, and assessment of OROV prevention and treatment programs, intending to guide public health intervention and research efforts.