Teratogenic Effects and Outcomes of Congenital Oropouche Virus Infection: Current Evidence, Pathophysiological Mechanisms, and Research Priorities

Background

Oropouche virus (OROV), an Orthobunyavirus endemic to Latin America, has recently emerged as a pathogen of concern in pregnancy following reports of vertical transmission, fetal demise, congenital anomalies, and neonatal disease. The unprecedented 2023–2025 outbreaks in Latin America have expanded the geographic distribution of OROV and renewed concerns regarding its potential as an emerging human teratogen.

Methods

We conducted a narrative comprehensive review of the literature focusing on epidemiology, maternal–fetal transmission, placental infection, experimental models, fetal and neonatal outcomes, and comparisons with other congenital arboviral infections.

Results