As cases of ‘sloth fever’ continue to rise across Europe and the US, we understand why it poses a significant threat to public health

A mysterious and deadly illness known as ‘sloth fever’ is spreading across Europe and the United States, raising concerns among health officials and the public alike. The disease currently has no known cure, making it a significant threat. 

In a latest development, more than 20 US travellers returning from Cuba have tested positive, according to an update by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday. Reports also state that 19 cases have been reported in Europe so far. As cases continue to rise, understanding the nature of this fever, its transmission, and preventive measures is crucial for public health safety.

Primary symptoms

Dr Palleti Siva Karthik Reddy, MBBS, MD, general physician, tells indianexpress.com, “Sloth fever, formally known as Oropouche fever, presents with symptoms that typically resemble other viral infections such as dengue fever. It is caused by Oropouche virus. The primary symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, stiff joints, nausea, vomiting, chills, and sensitivity to light.”

Dr Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan MBBS, MD, DM, consultant gastroenterologist at Fortis, adds, “In rare but severe cases, the infection can progress to complications like meningitis or encephalitis, posing a serious risk to the nervous system. The incubation period, or the time between infection and the onset of symptoms, usually ranges from 3 to 8 days.”

How is sloth fever transmitted?

According to Dr Reddy, sloth fever is primarily transmitted through bites from mosquitoes and midges that have fed on infected animals, such as sloths, monkeys, or birds. “This mode of transmission makes it similar to other arboviruses like dengue and Zika.” 

One of the significant factors contributing to its rapid spread in Europe and the US is increased travel and global interconnectedness, he states, which facilitates the movement of infected individuals and vectors across borders.

Dr Srinivasan echoes this. He says, “The rapid spread of the virus across Europe and the US is likely attributed to a combination of factors, including increased international travel, climate change expanding the habitats of disease-carrying insects, and a lack of widespread immunity to this relatively new virus.”

The rapid spread of the virus across Europe and the US is likely attributed to a combination of factors, including increased international travel, climate change expanding the habitats of disease-carrying insects, and a lack of widespread immunity to this relatively new virus. (Source: Freepik)

What measures can individuals take to reduce their risk of infection?

Since there is no cure or vaccine available for sloth fever, prevention is key, says Dr Reddy. Individuals can reduce their risk of infection by taking the following measures:

– Avoid Insect Bites: Use insect repellents that contain DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, and use mosquito nets, especially when sleeping. 

– Minimise Exposure to Vectors: Avoid areas with high mosquito and midge activity, particularly during peak biting times such as dawn and dusk.

– Travel Precautions: For those travelling to areas where the virus is known to be present, staying in accommodations with proper screening or air conditioning can reduce exposure to insects.

– Public Health Awareness: Being aware of travel advisories and health alerts from organisations like the CDC can help travellers take appropriate precautions.

Current challenges faced by the medical community in diagnosing and treating sloth fever

“The diagnosis of sloth fever can be challenging due to its overlapping symptoms with other viral illnesses like dengue or Zika. Currently, there is no specific treatment for the virus, and care focuses on managing symptoms and providing supportive care,” says Dr Srinivasan.

The medical community is actively researching the virus to understand its pathogenesis and develop effective diagnostic tools and antiviral therapies, he mentions. However, the road to a cure or vaccine is likely to be long and complex, emphasising the importance of prevention in the meantime.

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