Dr Amir talks about blood types that attract mosquitoes Health bodies are urging caution as a little-known disease has been linked to the first ever confirmed deaths from its infection in the world. Two young women have died after contracting Oropouche virus, a disease spread by midges and mosquitoes. A number of miscarriages and birth defects caused by the virus have also been recorded in Brazil, where the deaths occurred.
It comes as the country has seen an alarming surge in cases of the Oropouche virus. Already this year, 7,284 cases have been reported in Brazil, up from 832 in 2023. This includes areas that have previously not been affected by the virus.
READ MORE Sign of 'silent killer' condition in the nose affecting one in three Brits Oropouche fever is spread by the bite of infected midges and mosquitoes (Image: Getty) It has also been found in other countries with a total of 8,078 cases recorded in Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia and Cuba by the end of July. Brazil’s health ministry confirmed the deaths of two women, aged 21 and 24, in Bahia state on July 25. According to reports, they each developed sudden symptoms, which can include fever, body aches and headaches, resulting in fatal bleeding.
A potential third death, of a 57-year-old man, linked to the virus is currently under investigation. Don't miss..
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