Holidaymakers planning trips to the Canary Islands have been alerted to a health warning regarding the spread of sloth fever, a concerning virus with no known cure. The Spanish archipelago, popular among British tourists, has recently recorded three cases of this potentially dangerous virus. The individuals affected had all recently visited Cuba, with a 36-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman from Tenerife, along with a 52-year-old man from Gran Canaria, testing positive for sloth fever.
Sloth fever, also known as Oropouche virus, was previously an uncommon disease mainly found in the Amazon basin in South America. However, this year has seen a significant increase in reported cases globally, including in Europe. The Canary Islands health officials are reporting common symptoms among the infected, such as fever, diarrhoea, and joint pain. Three more individuals are awaiting test results, heightening concerns on the islands.
Earlier incidents of individuals displaying symptoms of sloth fever after visiting Cuba have occurred in Italy. A 26-year-old woman and a 45-year-old man both sought medical attention upon their return from their trips to different parts of Cuba. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has highlighted that around 19 people in Europe, including Spain and Germany, have been impacted by this mysterious illness in recent months.
The Canary Islands, home to 2.2 million residents spread across seven islands, attract millions of tourists each year, particularly to Tenerife. The affected individuals experienced a range of symptoms, including fever, diarrhoea, headaches, high temperature, muscle soreness, and joint stiffness. Despite the concerning nature of sloth fever, Dr. Philip Veal, a Travel Health Consultant, has reassured that there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus.
Travellers headed to areas at risk for sloth fever are advised to take precautionary measures against insect bites, as the virus is typically spread by a specific type of midge not commonly found in Europe. Recommendations include using insect repellent, covering exposed skin, and sleeping under treated bed nets to avoid potential infections. Stay updated on the latest health and Covid news to keep informed about potential health risks while travelling.