20 Americans Sick with ‘Sloth Fever’ After Cuba Trip

A group of 20 American travelers returning from Cuba have been diagnosed with a rare viral illness known as ‘Sloth Fever,’ or ‘Oroya Fever,’ which is spread through insect bites. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that all 20 individuals were infected with the ‘Oroya’ virus, and while thankfully none have died, there is growing concern about its potential spread within the U.S. The virus is endemic to tropical forests and was first identified in 1955. It can be transmitted to humans through small biting flies and some mosquitos. The CDC recommends travelers to Cuba and other affected regions take precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. While there is no vaccine or specific treatment for the virus, the CDC emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and supportive care to manage symptoms, which can include fever, headache, muscle pain, and potentially more severe complications.