LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The first case of the travel-related Oropuche virus was reported in Jefferson County.

According to the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, a Jefferson County resident traveled from Cuba and was diagnosed with the virus.

The infected person has mild symptoms and is now recovering. The virus can spread to people through the bite of infected biting midges and some mosquitos.

At this time, there's no evidence that the virus has spread to the United States but it's been reported in parts of South America, Central America and the Caribbean.

The symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Body aches
  • Joint pain

The infections are usually mild and occur three to 10 days after the bite.

"If you're planning to travel to countries where there are locally transmitted cases of Oropouche virus, you should take measures to prevent insect bites during your stay abroad and for three weeks after your return. If you're pregnant, then you should speak with your healthcare provider about travel plans and reconsider nonessential travel to Cuba," said Dr. Kris Bryant, associate medical director of LMPHW and pediatric infectious disease specialist at Norton Children's, in a news release. "Keep in mind, no matter where you live -- or are visiting -- you should always protect yourself from insects that can carry disease."

There are no vaccines to prevent the virus or medicines to treat the illness.

LMPHW advises pregnant women to reconsider nonessential travel plans to Cuba.

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