Oropouche Virus Can be Passed from Mother-to-Infant

A research letter published on October 30, 2024, at NEJM.org, documented vertical transmission of the Oropouche virus from a mother to an infant.

The case's ultrasound showed fetal demise, and Oropouche RNA was detected in several fetal samples, including the cerebrospinal fluid, placenta, and umbilical cord. 

Oropouche virus has been found in semen, but it is unknown if it can be spread through sex.

While Oropouche virus outbreaks have historically been reported in the Amazon basin, during 2024, cases have been confirmed in various countries in the Region of the Americas, including Cuba.

The U.S. CDC confirmed multiple cases of Oropouche, which have recently been reported in the U.S. (Florida), and European travelers returning from travel to Cuba. The CDC suggests pregnant women reconsider non-essential travel to Cuba.

As of November 1, 2024, no vaccines are authorized to protect people from Oropouche.