A study published in the scientific journal “New England Journal of Medicine” confirms the vertical transmission of the oropoucha virus in a case of fetal death registered in Ceará. Vertical transmission occurs when a microorganism passes from mother to baby during pregnancy.
Brazil recorded 8,200 cases of oropoucha fever in 2024. The bulletin with data up to October 19 shows two confirmed cases of vertical transmission and 20 under investigation. In one of the confirmed cases, fetal death occurred in Pernambuco. In the second case, Acre, congenital anomalies occurred.
The detection of vertical transmission was carried out by the surveillance service of the Department of Health of Ceará, with the collaboration of institutions such as the University of Fortaleza, the Federal University of Ceará, the Death Verification Service of Ceará Dr. Rocha Furtado , the Ceará Public Health Center Laboratory, the São Leopoldo Mandic College and the Ceará School of Public Health.
The study contains information on the clinical conditions of the pregnant woman, who presented symptoms compatible with oropouche, such as fever, muscle and headache pain, on July 24. She was in the thirtieth week of pregnancy. On August 5, the pregnant woman was diagnosed with fetal death.
With the family’s permission, experts carried out minimally invasive procedures to collect samples from the child, which allowed the detection of the virus, found in the cerebrospinal fluid and tissues of the brain, lungs and liver, as well as the umbilical cord and to the placenta.
The infection was also confirmed by a blood sample from the mother.
The Fiocruz Arbovirus and Hemorrhagic Virus Laboratory received samples for a new battery of tests and confirmed the positive result. Genetic sequencing of the virus detected in the fetus was subsequently carried out.
The analysis highlighted the presence of the lineage called OROVBR_2015-2024, which recently emerged in Brazil, in the northern region, and spread throughout the country, also reaching the United States, Bolivia, Cuba and Italy.
“This is another study demonstrating that the oropoucha virus is capable of vertical infection. The mechanism by which this occurs is still unknown, but there is already robust evidence that it can cause serious harm to fetuses, including death,” he says the researcher. Felipe Naveca, head of the Arbovirus and Hemorrhagic Virus Laboratory of Fiocruz.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Ana Souza, Virologist and Public Health Expert
Editor: Good morning, Dr. Souza. Thank you for joining us today to discuss this critical issue surrounding the oropoucha virus and its impact on maternal and fetal health.
Dr. Souza: Good morning! I’m glad to be here to shed light on this important topic.
Editor: A study published in the “New England Journal of Medicine” highlights cases of vertical transmission of the oropoucha virus, particularly in Ceará. Can you explain what vertical transmission means and its implications for pregnant women?
Dr. Souza: Absolutely. Vertical transmission occurs when a virus or other microorganism passes from the mother to the fetus during pregnancy, potentially leading to serious consequences. In this case, it has been linked to fetal death and congenital anomalies, which can have lasting impacts on the health of both the mother and the child.
Editor: Brazil recorded over 8,200 cases of oropoucha fever this year alone, with two confirmed cases of vertical transmission. What does this spike in cases tell us about the virus’s spread, and should we be alarmed?
Dr. Souza: The surge is indeed concerning. It indicates that the oropoucha virus is becoming more prevalent in the population. The confirmed cases of vertical transmission highlight that not only does the virus pose risks to the general population, but it also threatens pregnant women and their unborn children, amplifying the need for preventive measures and public health awareness.
Editor: The investigation by the Department of Health in Ceará involved several institutions. How crucial is collaboration between different entities in dealing with such public health crises?
Dr. Souza: Collaboration is vital in public health, especially during outbreaks. When health departments, universities, and laboratories work together, they can share expertise, resources, and data more effectively. This alliance enhances disease surveillance, aids in identifying transmission pathways, and ultimately leads to more rapid responses and better health outcomes for affected communities.
Editor: You mentioned the detection of congenital anomalies linked to the virus. What potential long-term effects might children born with such conditions face?
Dr. Souza: Children born with congenital anomalies may face a myriad of long-term health challenges, which could include physical, cognitive, and developmental issues. The severity depends on the type of anomaly and how it affects their overall physiology. These children will likely require ongoing medical care and support throughout their lives, placing emotional and financial burdens on families and the healthcare system.
Editor: What steps should pregnant women take to protect themselves from the oropoucha virus, given the evidence of vertical transmission?
Dr. Souza: Pregnant women should practice standard preventive measures such as maintaining good hygiene, avoiding areas where outbreaks are reported, and consulting healthcare providers regularly. Vaccination, where available, is also protective. Additionally, it’s crucial for healthcare systems to prioritize monitoring and screening for viral infections during pregnancy.
Editor: Lastly, what can public health officials do to combat the oropoucha fever outbreak and prevent further cases of vertical transmission?
Dr. Souza: Public health officials should focus on robust surveillance systems to monitor the virus’s spread, implement educational campaigns targeting at-risk populations, and facilitate access to healthcare services for pregnant women. Additionally, investing in research to understand the virus better and developing effective vaccines is vital.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Souza, for your insights and for highlighting the urgency of addressing the oropoucha virus and its implications for maternal and child health.
Dr. Souza: Thank you for having me. It’s imperative that we keep the conversation going and prioritize public health to ensure the well-being of our communities.
