Orthobunyaviruses are a group of viruses that includes the Oropouche virus, which is different from flaviviruses like dengue and alphaviruses like chikungunya.  

Yes, serious complications such as encephalitis and meningitis (inflammation of the brain and surrounding membranes) have occasionally been reported.  

No, despite the name, Sloth fever is not contracted via contact with sloths.  

The CDC issued a warning due to the spread of the Oropouche virus in regions near the US and to advise caution for residents, especially those traveling to affected areas.      

Sloth fever symptoms are similar to those of other viral infections, making it difficult to distinguish without specific medical testing.  

Sloth fever has been reported in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.  

The US CDC advises avoiding unnecessary travel to Brazil and Cuba due to the presence of the Oropouche virus.  

The Oropouche virus was named after a village in Trinidad and Tobago where the virus was first isolated from an infected person.