Symptoms of ‘sloth fever’ to look out for as new virus sweeps across the US and Europe

A new illness sweeping across the US has been dubbed 'Sloth Fever', and here's everything you need to know.

After the pandemic, most of us have become pretty fed up of hearing about viruses spreading around the planet, but unfortunately, cases of a new illness have been reported in the States, with some originating in Europe too.

Florida has already reported 20 travel-related cases so far, which included nine people taking ill last week in the US, according to The New York Post.

Meanwhile, Sky News reports that 19 out of 10,000 cases reported have come from Europe - with two deaths caused by the disease also having been confirmed to have taken place in Brazil.

The virus has been reported in the US. (Getty Stock Photo)

What exactly is Sloth Fever?

Sloth Fever is an arbovirus, which means that it spreads through insect bites to both animals and humans.

It's been dubbed Sloth Fever due to the fact it's found in areas home to pale-throated sloths, who typically carry a large amount of parasites.

It's also known as the 'Oropouche virus’ too, due to the first case being recorded close to the Oropouche River in Trinidad and Tobago, back in 1955.

Last year, there were 832 cases, however this has surged in recent months.

From January of this year until now, there has been over 8,000 cases reported.

It's named after pale-throated sloths. (Getty Stock Photo)

What are the symptoms?

Scientists know that the incubation period for Sloth Fever is somewhere between three and 10 days.

Symptoms include a sudden fever and a severe headache, which can last for a week.

However, there are other symptoms such as:

• Headaches
• Chills
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Fever
• Muscle soreness
• Eye pain
• Maculopapular rash
• Diarrhoea
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Abdominal pain

There's no specific treatment for the virus. (Getty Stock Photo)

Due to the symptoms, it can tricky to distinguish Sloth Fever from other more common viruses, such as the flu.

However, like many viruses, it's best to try and get as much rest as possible if you do contract Sloth Fever.

There's no specific treatment, but maintaining your fluid intake and seeking medical attention if your symptoms become concerning is also important.

With the illness spreading through bites, it can be tricky to prevent.

However, the best way to avoid catching the virus is to use repellent while outside, as well as closing your windows and doors so they can’t get into your home.

The CDC also recommends that pregnant people reconsider travelling to South American countries too.