Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Latest News

Scientists recently identified multiple targets for antibodies—proteins that protect us when an unwanted substance enters our body—that could one day help treat  Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF).

About Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever

• It is an important zoonotic disease caused by a tick-borne virus (Nairovirus) belonging to the family Bunyaviridae.  
• The CCHF virus causes severe viral haemorrhagic fever outbreaks, with a case fatality rate of 10–40%. 

‹ ›

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Distribution

• The disease was first characterized in 1944 in the Crimea. 
• In 1969, the same pathogen was identified as the cause of a similar disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, leading to the combined name used today. 
• CCHF commonly spreads in (is endemic to) Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. 
• Its distribution closely mirrors that of Hyalomma ticks, the primary vectors responsible for transmitting the virus. 

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Transmission

• It is transmitted by bites from infected ticks or by direct contact with blood or tissues of infected ticks, people, and livestock. 
• The ticks can also be hosted by migratory birds.
• People working in livestock industries, slaughterhouses, and veterinary services are considered among the highest-risk groups for infection.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Symptoms

• Symptoms start one to 13 days after infection.  Common symptoms include:
  • High fever
  • Muscle, back, or belly pain
  • Headache, often severe
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Flushing
  • Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
  • Mood changes
  • Confusion
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Three to five days after the initial symptoms start, you might also have heavier or more widespread bleeding and large bruises. 
• Some people are infected but don’t have any symptoms.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Treatment

• There is no specific treatment or cure for CCHF. 
• Supportive care includes fluid balance, giving oxygen, managing blood pressure, and treating other infections.
• An antiviral called Ribavirin has shown some benefits in treating CCHF patients.

News: MEDX