Duval Times

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) has urged President Joe Biden to take proactive measures to prevent a widespread outbreak of the Oropouche virus in the United States. The virus, spread by mosquitoes and biting midges, can cause neurological effects and severe consequences for unborn babies.

Recent surveillance data indicate approximately 40 travel-associated cases of Oropouche in Florida, primarily from individuals who recently traveled from Cuba. With significant traffic from South America and the Caribbean, there is growing concern that cases could increase rapidly in Florida and other states. Despite this, the administration has issued limited public health guidance and lacks adequate infrastructure to address the virus, such as local testing facilities.

In his letter to President Biden, Senator Rubio emphasized the need for the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be proactive in protecting Americans. "The U.S. Center for Disease Control and U.S. Food and Drug Administration must be proactive in protecting Americans and set into place appropriate protections and infrastructure to ensure we have the testing and treatment capabilities for every person who needs it and instill confidence in state and local health personnel on the front lines," Rubio wrote.

On August 16, 2024, the CDC issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory to alert public health officials about the rise in Oropouche cases in the Americas. This year alone, over 8,000 cases have been reported globally, including more than thirty cases in Florida from travelers returning from Cuba.

While most patients experience minor symptoms, there are concerns due to its potentially deadly side effects for some individuals. Cases from Brazil have shown infections in pregnant mothers leading to fetal death during the third trimester or congenital malformations in newborns. There is currently no approved diagnostic test for babies in utero or newborns.

The U.S. has only one approved test to diagnose Oropouche accurately, which is limited by laboratory sites outside of CDC headquarters in Atlanta. Additionally, due to its resemblance to dengue, Zika virus, and chikungunya, many patients may receive a negative test for these diseases but remain undiagnosed with Oropouche.

Healthcare providers feel ill-equipped due to limited clinical guidance from federal health officials on advising patients diagnosed with Oropouche, particularly pregnant women.

Senator Rubio's letter included several questions aimed at understanding how federal agencies plan to tackle these challenges:

- To what extent is the CDC working with health agencies domestically and abroad on treatment and prevention guidance?

- Has the U.S. Department of State evaluated elevating travel advisory statuses for Brazil and Cuba?

- How is the CDC ensuring accurate diagnosis between Oropouche and other vector-borne diseases?

- What steps is the CDC taking to expand Oropouche testing?

- Does the CDC intend to expand diagnostic testing capabilities in heavily impacted states like Florida?

- Is there any plan to work with commercial labs to enhance testing capacity?

- What efforts has been made by CDC regarding educating pregnant women about risks associated with Oropouche?

Rubio concluded his letter requesting recent data on infection rates and transmission impacts of Oropouche.