Abstract
Oropouche virus is a neglected, emerging virus that belongs to the Peribunyaviridae family and has caused significant public health concerns, especially in South America. Since its discovery in the 1950s, this virus has demonstrated a considerable impact on public health through its silent spread and occasional outbreaks. At least 30 major outbreaks have been reported, with more than half a million cases documented in many countries including Brazil, Peru, Panama, Trinidad and Tobago. In 2024, more than 16,000 confirmed cases were reported, including four deaths. It is endemic to Amazon and is currently spreading beyond its territory to non-endemic countries. It has been linked to human death for the first time, raising major concerns about the threat this virus poses to public health. The virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of the midge Culicoides paraensis and possibly by certain mosquito species. Oropouche virus fever does not exhibit specific clinical symptoms and is therefore often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as other arboviral diseases. Currently, there are no vaccines or antiviral treatment available; hence, disease prevention mainly focuses on vector control and personal protection measures. Understanding the comprehensive drivers influencing the emergence and spread of this disease is vital for developing effective control and prevention strategies. This infection has recently emerged as one of the most important viral diseases in Latin America and is likely to remain a considerable threat to global public health in the near future. Here, an overview of Oropouche virus, it's clinical features, and pathogenesis are presented.