US, Europe Report 'Sloth Fever' Cases From Cuba, Brazil
US, ReportsEurope 20Report 'Sloth Fever' Cases FollowingFrom Cuba, Brazil
The Facts
Thousands of cases of the Oropouche virus, dubbed 'Sloth Fever,' have been reported around the world this year, including 21 in the US and 19 in Europe, all of whom are believed to have contracted the virus while traveling to Cuba and Brazil.
Sloth Fever comes from insects like midges and mosquitoes, who then transmit it when they bite animals including birds, rodents, sloths, and humans. Symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, sensitivity to light, and vomiting, among others.
The Spin
Not only are Sloth Fever and and Triple E viruse on the rise, but West Nile virus is also sweeping through the US. As more and more cases appear, people must take precautions including wearing long sleeve shirts and pants, using mosquito repellent, and getting rid of standing water.
Since we know these viruses are coming from particular countries, immigration and international travel should be topics of discussion. The government must do a better job at ensuring immigrants are screened before entering the US, and Americans should follow pre- and post-travel health protocols to keep themselves and others safe.
