September 19, 2024

Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation

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Oropouche virus caution

August 31, 2024

The Oropouche virus is re-emerging in the Caribbean and one scientist wants individuals to be cautious as it has the same symptoms as dengue and zika.

Dr. Kirk Douglas, Director of the Centre for Biosecurity Studies at UWI says while there is no evidence the virus, which has been around since the 1950’s, is in Barbados there’s concern about it spreading.

In an interview with CBC News he says it’s been circulating in Cuba.

He also says a 2021 study showed Haitian school children had Oropouche at the same time they had dengue and zika.

Meanwhile, a caution is going out to pregnant women to be wary of mosquitoes and sandflies, as both of them spread Oropouche and it’s very dangerous to a foetus.

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