Double trouble: Health experts issue warnings about two rapid virus outbreaks happening worldwide
By
Danielle F.
- Replies 85
Seasoned travellers understand the allure of exploring new destinations and experiencing different cultures.
However, recent health news started causing concern among global healthcare experts.
It's crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure our health and safety, regardless of whether we are globetrotting or staying at home.
The World Health Organisation raised the alarm by declaring a Health Emergency of International Concern over the rapid spread of Monkeypox.
Generally known as Mpox, the virus's recent surge in cases has prompted a global response.
Meanwhile, the Oropouche virus also started making headlines.
According to records, there have been 19 cases of the Oropouche imported from South America to Europe—its first detection on the continent.
A known virus since 1955, the Oropouche virus is transmitted through infected midges or mosquitoes.
The virus has spread to approximately 8,000 people.
Two Brazilian women have already died from the virus, sparking research and investigation.
The symptoms of the Oropouche virus include nausea, fever with headache, vomiting, and muscle and joint pains.
In some cases, the Oropouche virus could lead to miscarriage and foetal deformities transmitted to the child during pregnancy.
While the virus is rarely fatal, the discomfort and potential complications should not be taken lightly.
Travellers, especially those visiting South America, were advised to take precautions against insect bites.
Health experts from the United Kingdom Health Security Agency also emphasised that pregnant women should be vigilant.
Although the midges carrying the Oropouche virus have not been detected in Europe, the changing climate and increasingly hot weather raise concerns about tropical diseases in new areas, including Australia.
Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) stated that they constantly update Smartraveller advisories regarding the virus outbreaks.
NSW Health also issued a warning about Mpox and its symptoms.
This warning came after a recent spike in infections in the area.
Mpox could spread through close skin-to-skin contact and could look like small skin lesions in hard-to-see areas.
Other symptoms include mild fever, headache, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, mouth ulcers, or rectal pain.
Mpox now has a new strain called clade 1b, and over 15,000 cases have been reported in central Africa this year alone.
It's essential to understand the risks and heed the advice of medical experts.
For those planning their international travels for the year, consult travel advisories, stay updated on health warnings, and consider travel insurance to cover medical emergencies.
You may also talk to your doctor about preventative measures, such as vaccines.
What do you think of these recent virus outbreaks? How do you keep yourself safe from any illness? Share your health tips and experiences with us in the comments section below.
However, recent health news started causing concern among global healthcare experts.
It's crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure our health and safety, regardless of whether we are globetrotting or staying at home.
The World Health Organisation raised the alarm by declaring a Health Emergency of International Concern over the rapid spread of Monkeypox.
Generally known as Mpox, the virus's recent surge in cases has prompted a global response.
Meanwhile, the Oropouche virus also started making headlines.
According to records, there have been 19 cases of the Oropouche imported from South America to Europe—its first detection on the continent.
A known virus since 1955, the Oropouche virus is transmitted through infected midges or mosquitoes.
The virus has spread to approximately 8,000 people.
Two Brazilian women have already died from the virus, sparking research and investigation.
The symptoms of the Oropouche virus include nausea, fever with headache, vomiting, and muscle and joint pains.
In some cases, the Oropouche virus could lead to miscarriage and foetal deformities transmitted to the child during pregnancy.
While the virus is rarely fatal, the discomfort and potential complications should not be taken lightly.
Travellers, especially those visiting South America, were advised to take precautions against insect bites.
Health experts from the United Kingdom Health Security Agency also emphasised that pregnant women should be vigilant.
Although the midges carrying the Oropouche virus have not been detected in Europe, the changing climate and increasingly hot weather raise concerns about tropical diseases in new areas, including Australia.
Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) stated that they constantly update Smartraveller advisories regarding the virus outbreaks.
NSW Health also issued a warning about Mpox and its symptoms.
This warning came after a recent spike in infections in the area.
Mpox could spread through close skin-to-skin contact and could look like small skin lesions in hard-to-see areas.
Other symptoms include mild fever, headache, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, mouth ulcers, or rectal pain.
Mpox now has a new strain called clade 1b, and over 15,000 cases have been reported in central Africa this year alone.
It's essential to understand the risks and heed the advice of medical experts.
For those planning their international travels for the year, consult travel advisories, stay updated on health warnings, and consider travel insurance to cover medical emergencies.
You may also talk to your doctor about preventative measures, such as vaccines.
Key Takeaways
- The World Health Organisation recently declared a Health Emergency of International Concern due to the rapid spread of Mpox.
- Travellers were also warned about the Oropouche virus after recent cases imported from South America to Europe.
- Health experts recommended that travellers avoid insect bites and that pregnant women be particularly vigilant in regions affected by the Oropouche virus.
- NSW Health also urged the community to be aware of Mpox symptoms following a recent increase in infections.