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The 10 signs of ‘brain swelling' sloth fever which could be spread by sex after cases spotted in UK for the first time
THE UK has reported its first-ever cases of flu-like 'sloth fever'.
Three people tested positive for the disease, officially called Oropouche virus, between January and June 2025, new data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says.
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The little-known virus, spread to humans by mosquitoes and biting midges - unlike the name suggests - was also reported in Europe last summer for the first time after it started spreading rapidly in Latin America.
Historically, Oropouche was confined to within the Amazon basin in South America, including Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, and Panama.
In 2024, outbreaks also appeared in these regions as well as in Cuba and Barbados, the likely source of some of the 19 cases of sloth fever reported in Europe last year.
The first cases of the oropouche in the UK were all linked to travel from Brazil, the UKHSA said.
The bug typically circulates between primates, including sloths - hence the nickname - before it is occasionally passed to humans by the critters.
Mosquitos and midges found in the UK and wider Europe do not currently spread Oropouche virus disease.
Until last year, experts didn't think the virus could spread from person to person.
But a study published by Italian scientists in December suggested it could spread in semen, sparking concerns about possible sexual transmission.
Scientists are currently investigating whether the infection can be passed on from mothers to babies during pregnancy, after the virus was linked to stillbirths and birth defects.
For most people, Oropouche infections are mild, with symptoms typically showing up 4 to 8 days after a bite.
I tried the best ways to stop mosquitoes on your summer hols - from sprays, patches & bracelets, one was a dud and stank
These can include:
Fever
Headache
Joint pain
Muscle aches
Chills
Nausea and vomiting
Rash
Sensitivity to light
Dizziness
Pain behind the eyes
UKHSA chiefs have urged anyone who becomes unwell with these symptoms after travel to affected areas.
Symptoms typically last less than a week but can occasionally reoccur.
In severe cases, the virus can also attack the brain leading to meningitis or encephalitis, which can be fatal.
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It is estimated that fewer than four per cent of patients will develop neurological symptoms.
The first ever deaths linked to the virus were reported in Brazil in July 2024, where, sadly, two people died.
There are currently no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines available.
Treatment for symptoms can include rest, fluids, and the use of medicines to reduce pain and fever.
The 6 things all travellers must do to protect themselves from 'sloth virus'
Dubbed a "mysterious threat
But it is transmitted by biting midges and mosquitoes that have fed on sloth, monkey or bird blood, so avoiding bites can help keep you safe.
There are also five other steps you can take to protect yourself.
1. Prevent bites
The number one thing you can do to protect yourself from Oropouche, as well as dengue fever, Zika and other viruses transmitted by insects, is preventing bites, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
This means using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved tops and trousers, and staying in places with air conditioning or that use window and door screens and/or mosquito nets.
Avoiding strong perfumes, soaps, shampoos and deodorants can also help, the NHS says.
2. Time it right
Anyone who has been to areas where Oropouche is present should continue to prevent insect bites for three weeks after travel, the CDC warns.
"This is to mitigate additional spread of the virus and potential importation into unaffected areas," it adds.
3. Know the signs
Another major line of defence is being aware of the most common symptoms of Oropouche.
The CDC says these are a fever and headache, which usually begin three to 10 days after being bitten by an infected bug.
Other potential signs include muscle aches, stiff joints, nausea, vomiting, chills and sensitivity to light.
"Most people infected with Oropouche feel better within a week, but symptoms often come back," the CDC adds.
4. Seek medical help
According to the CDC, travellers to areas with Oropouche transmission, including South America or the Caribbean, who develop a fever, chills, headache, joint pain or muscle pain during or within two weeks after travel should:
Seek medical care and tell their healthcare provider when and where they travelled
Not take aspirin or other NSAIDS (e.g. ibuprofen) to reduce the risk of bleeding
Continue to prevent insect bites during the first week of illness to avoid further spread, especially in areas where mosquitoes or biting midges are active
5. Plan ahead
Before jetting off, pregnant holidaymakers should discuss travel plans with their GP, CDC guidance states.
This should include their reason for travel, how to prevent insect bites, and all potential risks associated with travel.
The dangers of Oropouche during pregnancy are unknown, but experts say it acts similarly to Zika, which can be passed to unborn babies and cause miscarriages, stillbirths, birth defects, seizures, vision problems and hearing loss.
6. Avoid non-essential travel
Finally, if you are pregnant, you should reconsider non-essential travel to Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia and Cuba, the CDC says.
"If travel is unavoidable, pregnant travellers should strictly follow Oropouche virus prevention recommendations to prevent insect bites during travel," it adds.
