The sloth virus has recently been discovered in the United States. What do you know, and what do you need to know? Sloth is not such a scary word, so maybe the mention of it has slipped by you on the news or in conversations. The truth is that this particular virus was never found in the United States until August of this year, 2024. The ease of spread of this virus is concerning, as are the symptoms. Let’s get to know a little more about the sloth virus together.
THE SLOTH FLU: FLU OR VIRUS AND THE MEDICAL NAME
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If you use whichever search engine you prefer, you will find that many people call the sloth virus the sloth flu. Some even call it the sloth fever. In all actuality, it is a virus, not a flu. Many of its symptoms are similar to symptoms of common types of influenza, so it is easy to understand how this misconception came about. The actual medical name for this is the Oropouche Virus (OROV). As of August twenty-second of this year, there are no local transmissions in the United States. However, twenty-one confirmed were brought into the US by travelers.
GEOGRAPHIC HISTORY
The sloth virus was first discovered in Trinidad and Tobago in 1955. The sloth virus is native to the Amazon basin. Before the 2000’s, there were outbreaks in Brazil, Panama, and Peru. All are still popular places to travel to and vacation. Over the last two decades, other countries have been added to this list. Some include Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and French Guiana. In Haiti, a child was also found infected in 2014. More recently, South America reported having large outbreaks in 2023. These were not only in native areas to the sloth virus but also in new areas.
As of June 2024, a Caribbean island that is part of North America confirmed its first case of the sloth virus. Cuba’s capital, Havanah, is currently trying to use fumigation to attempt to aid in decreasing its area’s spread. There aren’t any vaccines or medications currently to treat this disease, according to the CDC.
HOW DOES THE SLOTH VIRUS SPREAD?
Until recently, this virus was thought only to spread by being bitten by an infected midge or the bite of certain mosquitos. As of August this year, it has now been found that this virus can be virally spread. This means that a mother can pass the virus to her baby while still in utero. Traveling to specific countries can also be a high risk. The CDC has two current travel health notices to different countries. You can find the Level 1 Health Travel Notice on their website and the Level 2 Health Travel Notice for more information. When passed from a pregnant mother to her unborn baby, this may cause stillbirth, miscarriage, or congenital anomalies.
SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR
The symptoms associated with the sloth virus are very commonly associated with seasonal cases of flu, colds, and more. It is still important to keep notes and track any symptoms if you experience them. These symptoms can include:
- sudden fever
- chills
- muscle aches and stiff joints
- sensitivity to light
- pain behind the eyes
- rash
- dizziness
- vomiting
These symptoms usually last less than a week; however, they may recur again days or weeks later. While these symptoms are common, a small percentage (4%) of people have also ended up with neuro-invasive diseases caused by the sloth virus. These diseases are known as meningitis and encephalitis. Symptoms of said neuro-invasive diseases due to the sloth virus may include:
- confusion
- lethargy
- photophobia
- stiffness of the neck
- discomfort when trying to turn the neck
While death is extremely rare due to the sloth virus, it has still been confirmed. There have been three recent deaths due to this virus and one recent fetal death due to vertical transmission. Again, while there are no medications or vaccines, there is suggested support. Rest, fluids, and avoiding aspirin and aspirin-containing medications are currently advised. Pregnant women are encouraged not to travel unless necessary and to wear long sleeve pants and shirts.
FINAL THOUGHTS/TAKEAWAYS
While there are still only a few cases in the United States of the sloth virus, it is still important to take heed. The rapid influx in other countries since the 1950s and the now confirmed first cases in the United States is highly concerning. While anyone can be infected, it is highly dangerous for pregnant women. Please take care to use insect repellent, and take precautions you feel necessary to avoid contact with midges and mosquitos.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician or other medical professional. Please speak with your doctor or therapist if you have any questions or concerns.
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