Scientists have warned that the number of people infected with the potentially dangerous Oropouche virus could be in the millions, far exceeding previous estimates, according to two new studies published in Nature Medicine and Nature Health.
The little-known disease, sometimes called “sloth fever,” causes sudden illness marked by severe joint and muscle pain that can leave patients doubled over in discomfort.
Concern over the virus intensified in 2023 after more than 30,000 cases were reported in Brazil and several other Latin American countries. However, researchers now believe the outbreak may represent only a fraction of the actual number of infections.
Using mathematical models, historical records and blood bank analyses, researchers estimated that about 9.4 million people across Latin America and the Caribbean have been infected with the virus since 1960. Brazil alone accounted for an estimated 5.5 million cases.
“We are dealing with a disease that is much more widespread than we previously thought, and it deserves greater attention,” said co-author José Proença Modena of the State University of Campinas.
Researchers estimated that roughly one in every 1,000 diagnosed patients develops serious complications, including neurological disorders, microcephaly in newborns, miscarriages and liver problems, making the disease an emerging public health concern.
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The Oropouche virus is spread by the bites of tiny midges, insects that are about three times smaller than common mosquitoes.
