“Sloth Virus” Explained: How Media Hype Is Misleading the Public
The Sloth Conservation Foundation Clarifies Misleading Reports on “Sloth Virus”.
San José, Costa Rica – September 2, 2024 – The Sloth Conservation Foundation (SloCo) is addressing recent media reports about a so-called “sloth virus” that have caused unnecessary concern and confusion.
What is the “Sloth virus”?
Contrary to the news reports, the virus in question, referred to as a “sloth virus,” is not exclusive to sloths. In fact, it has only been detected in a sloth pale-throated three-fingered sloth (Bradypus tridactylus) in Brazil ONCE, back in 1967.
This virus is actually more commonly found in primates, such as howler monkeys and marmosets, as well as various insects. The virus, correctly named Oropouche, is transmitted to humans through bites from midges and mosquitoes, like other tropical diseases such as Zika or Dengue.
Recent outbreaks of Oropouche virus have occurred in Cuba, a region where sloths do not naturally live. Moreover, a comprehensive study on sloth virology conducted in Costa Rica in 2016 found no evidence of the Oropouche virus in sloths.
These facts highlight the misleading nature of the term “sloth virus” or “sloth fever” and the potential for such misinformation to cause unnecessary fear and misconceptions about sloths, which could harm ongoing conservation efforts. The fearmongering terms seem to have been adopted for its sensational appeal in headlines rather than any scientific or factual basis.
“Sloth Virus” Is Bad for Sloths (But Not in the Way You Think)
Historically, sloths have struggled against a negative reputation, often being labeled as dirty, dangerous, and disease-ridden creatures. This bad reputation led to widespread mistreatment, abuse, and neglect of sloths. Only through extensive education and awareness campaigns in recent years have attitudes begun to change, helping to shift public perception toward recognizing sloths as gentle animals that are actually low-risk carriers of disease. Misleading terms like “sloth virus” or “sloth fever” threaten to undo this progress, as people are less inclined to protect animals they believe are dangerous or unclean.
Clickbait Terms
We urge media outlets to use scientifically accurate terminology when reporting on such matters to prevent the spread of misinformation. Misleading headlines not only cause unnecessary alarm but also divert attention from vital conservation work aimed at protecting species genuinely at risk.
Our dedication to sloth conservation and public education remains steadfast. We encourage the public to seek information from reliable sources and support efforts that help protect sloths and other wildlife. For further information please contact us at contact@slothconservation.org
Dr Rebecca Cliffe
Founder and Executive Director
The Sloth Conservation Foundation
