3 days ago
Health warning issued as new virus detected in UK for the first time
The Oropouche virus, a tropical malaria-like disease, has been detected in Britain for the first time.
The UK Health Security Agency reported three cases between January and June this year, all in individuals who had returned from Brazil.
Typically found in South America, the virus can cause severe symptoms including high fever, headaches, and in rare instances, meningitis and death.
It is primarily spread through bites from midges and some mosquitos, with concerns about sexual and mother-to-baby transmission.
There is no cure, but preventative measures such as using insect repellent with 50 per cent DEET and protective clothing are advised for travellers to affected areas.
