©️Encephalitis International
Port-au-Prince, September 20, 2025.- The General Directorate of the Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP) confirmed the detection of the Oropouche virus in Haiti. Fourteen cases, including infants, have already been recorded in seven departments. This new arbovirus, transmitted by flies, to the symptoms of dengue and chikungunya, has no specific treatment. The Department calls for increased vigilance and strict application of preventive measures.
According to a joint report by the Directorate of Epidemiology, Legislation and Research (DELR) and the National Laboratory of Public Health (LNSP), the first three cases, confirmed by PCR, concerned children aged 5 to 22 months. Further investigations revealed 11 additional cases, including adults, in the departments of North, North-East, Artibonite, South-East, West, Nippes and Grand-Anse.
A virus transmitted by flies
The Oropouche virus is an arbovirus transmitted by stings of flies called locally bigay. It causes symptoms similar to dengue, chikungunya or malaria: fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain. Although often benign, infection may in some cases lead to neurological or bleeding complications.
The MSPP points out that the virus is already circulating in the Caribbean, Central America and Latin America, with recent resurgences reported in Brazil, Panama, Peru, Cuba, Colombia and Guyana. Epidemiological vigilance is therefore considered essential to avoid wider spread in Haiti.
Prevention measures and commitment of the MPSC
DELR and LNSP continue their investigations to assess the extent of the virus's circulation and propose appropriate actions. Recommended individual measures include the use of repellents, the wearing of long clothing, the installation of mosquito nets and the removal of stagnant water.
The MSPP reaffirms its commitment to regularly inform the population and commends the health teams for their responsiveness, while calling for enhanced coordination to protect the population.
W.A.
