Key points
- Oropouche virus is spread to people primarily by the bite of infected biting midges. Some mosquitoes can also spread the virus.
- There are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat Oropouche.
- The best way to protect yourself from Oropouche is to prevent bug bites.
Prevention tips
Oropouche virus is spread to people primarily by the bite of an infected biting midge. Biting midges are small flies, often called “no-see-ums.” It can also be spread by some mosquitoes, including Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes, which can also spread West Nile and St. Louis encephalitis viruses.
There are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat Oropouche. The best way to protect yourself from Oropouche is to prevent bites from biting midges and mosquitoes in areas where the virus is known to occur, including several countries in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Use insect repellent
Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents. When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective. Look for EPA-registered repellents labeled for flies, biting flies, or Culicoides (biting midges, punkies, granny nippers, and no-see-ums). Prevent bites while traveling if you'll be going to an area with Oropouche virus.
Prevent bites after travel
Use window and door screens
Use effective window and door screens. Mesh 20x20 screens are small enough to effectively exclude biting midges.
Use a fan when outdoors
When possible, use fans to help blow biting midges away when spending time outdoors.