Sloth fever

Sloths: The Newest Villains in Europe! Beware of 'Sloth Fever'!

'Sloth fever' has made its way to Europe! How did this charming creature become an unsuspecting villain?

Sloths are known for their laid-back lifestyle and adorable, often lethargic demeanor, but recent news shows that they might have an unexpected dark side as the Oropouche virus, popularly dubbed as 'sloth fever', begins spreading across Europe. With 19 cases reported in just June and July alone, the European Center for Disease Control (ECDC) has raised alarms that this brain-swelling virus could pose a significant threat for unsuspecting tourists returning from Latin America. The irony? One might think the slow-moving sloth wouldn’t be the cause of such uproar, but it’s the midges and mosquitoes that carry the virus into human populations that have everyone on high alert.

A wave of worry has set in for Brits planning summer holidays, as public health officials issue warnings to ‘take precautions’. Anyone who’s set their sights on Latin America is now left contemplating the risks of adorable wildlife like sloths. The symptoms of the disease include fever, joint pain, and in more severe cases, encephalitis (brain swelling). In recent reports, two fatalities have been connected to the virus, and both individuals had recently traveled to Cuba. Cue ominous music! With the case count rising, who knew that having an encounter with a sloth could turn from a cute Instagram moment into a potential health scare?

With an ‘unstoppable’ rate of spread, scholars and health officials alike are trying to figure out how to contain this emerging threat. The Oropouche virus is carried not just by sloths but primarily by midges, which are prolific in tropical and subtropical areas. It’s mainly transmitted when humans are bitten by these insects, which are often found lurking in humid, forested regions. So, while sloths are wandering around being their adorable selves, the real villain in this story could be buzzing around your ear without your knowledge!

In an age where we've grown to love documenting our wildlife encounters, make sure to check that health-related manual before posting those cute sloth selfies! And just in case you thought nature was all fun and games, remember: it’s not just the sloth’s slow movement that’s contagious; it’s the fear of a virus creeping back into Europe and causing alarm. So, pack that insect repellent, stay informed, and enjoy your travels!

Did you know that despite their sluggish lifestyle, sloths can hold their breath for up to 40 minutes? Now that's a talent worth bragging about! And here’s another fun fact: there are two-toed sloths and three-toed sloths, so if you spot one, make sure to get the two-toed sloth on camera performing its best slow-motion move!