- First cases of Oropouche fever in Germany
In Germany, the first cases of Oropouche fever (OF) have been registered. Two people from Saxony and Baden-Württemberg, both returning from Cuba, have been affected, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reports in its current "Epidemiological Bulletin".
"It is the first known OF patients in Germany," it continues. Both had been infected in Cuba and developed fever, headache, muscle, joint, and body aches during their stay abroad at the end of June and beginning of July. Tests in Germany confirmed typical antibodies against the Oropouche virus. The course of the disease was reportedly uncomplicated in both cases.
Outbreaks of Oropouche fever have been increasing in South and Central America since late 2022. Brazil has already registered over 7,000 laboratory-confirmed cases this year - and at least two deaths associated with the virus.
"Only travel-associated cases have been known in Europe so far," the RKI writes. "Italy and Spain reported a small number of cases among travelers returning from Cuba and Brazil in recent weeks."
The virus is mainly transmitted by specific mosquitoes, which are not present in Europe. No transmission has been observed in Europe so far, and it is unclear whether the virus could be transmitted by a European mosquito species. According to current knowledge, further spread in Germany is very unlikely, the authority emphasizes.
"The OF is accompanied by a dengue-like symptomology," the RKI writes, referring to a usually mild course. "The most common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle, and joint pain, and in rare cases, it can lead to aseptic meningitis or meningoencephalitis." Possibly, the virus could cause birth defects. Therefore, pregnant women may consider avoiding travel to current outbreak areas.
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has reported two cases of Oropouche fever in Germany, both in individuals who recently returned from Cuba. According to the RKI, only travel-associated cases of the virus have been known in Europe so far.
