Deadly Brazilian 'sloth fever' virus hits Europe

The emergence of the Brazilian "Sloth Fever" virus in Europe has raised significant concerns among health officials and researchers alike. Originally identified in South America, this viral infection, scientifically known as the *Sarcoptes scabiei* virus, primarily affects sloths but has demonstrated the capability to cross species barriers. The transmission dynamics of this virus are particularly alarming given its potential to infect humans, especially those who come into contact with infected wildlife or their habitats. In light of recent cases reported in various European countries, it is imperative to examine both the epidemiological implications and the necessary public health responses.

One notable aspect of "Sloth Fever" is its symptomatology, which includes fever, fatigue, and severe skin lesions that can lead to secondary infections if left untreated. These symptoms mirror those of other zoonotic diseases, complicating diagnosis and management efforts. The rapid spread observed in Europe suggests a critical need for heightened surveillance systems and comprehensive research initiatives aimed at understanding the virus's transmission pathways. Furthermore, public awareness campaigns must be instituted to educate communities about preventive measures when interacting with wildlife or visiting natural habitats where sloths may reside.

The virus is primarily spread through insect bites, including mosquitoes, and originates from pale-throated sloths, non-human primates, and birds.

Currently, there is no vaccine available for the virus, which belongs to the same family of diseases as Zika virus and Dengue Fever.

Dr Danny Altmann, a professor of Immunology at Imperial College London, told The Telegraph, "We should definitely be worried. Things are changing and may become unstoppable."

Outbreaks of the virus have previously been reported in several countries across South and Central America, as well as the Caribbean. In 2024, specific outbreaks were recorded in Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, and more recently in Cuba.

The virus has sparked outbreaks in Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama, and Peru over the past 25 years. In June this year, Cuba reported its first case of the infection. Sloth fever symptoms tend to start somewhere between three and 10 days after infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There have been very few deaths among people infected with the virus, it added.

Mr Kanani added: "Oropouche symptoms are typically similar to other viral infections and tend to mild. People with Oropouche may have a fever, muscle and joint pain, a headache, feel sick and have a rash. Symptoms usually last around a week." Other symptoms include a sensitivity to light, dizziness, dizziness, eye pain, diarrhoea, and stomach pain. The symptoms can last for up to a week, and they tend to return a few days or weeks later in most patients.

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Sarah H

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