Understanding Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a serious viral infection that can affect both animals and humans. Though not as widely known as other diseases, CCHF poses a significant public health risk, especially in areas where tick exposure and livestock handling are common.

How Is CCHF Transmitted?

The CCHF virus is primarily transmitted to humans in two ways:

1. Tick Bites – People can contract the virus through bites from infected ticks.
2. Contact with Infected Animals – Handling the blood or tissues of infected animals during and immediately after slaughter can also lead to infection.

Additionally, human-to-human transmission can occur through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of an infected person particularly in healthcare or caregiving settings.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For:

• Fever
• Muscle pain (myalgia)
• Dizziness
• Neck pain and stiffness
• Backache
• Headache
• Sore eyes
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Sore throat

After 2 to 4 days, symptoms may shift from agitation to sleepiness, depression, and fatigue (lassitude). The abdominal pain may localize to the upper right quadrant, sometimes accompanied by hepatomegaly (enlarged liver).

Treatment:

The antiviral drug ribavirin has shown apparent benefit. Both oral and intravenous forms of the medication appear to be effective in managing the infection and reducing complications when administered early.

Prevention & Control Measures:

While treatment options are limited, prevention plays a crucial role in reducing the spread of CCHF. Here’s how individuals, farmers, and healthcare workers can protect themselves:

1. Controlling CCHF in Animals and Ticks

The tick vectors are numerous and widespread, so tick control with acaricides is a realistic option for animal markets and local farms. There are no vaccines available for use in animals.

2. Reducing Tick-to-Human Transmission (During Animal Contact)

To minimize the risk of infection:

• Wear protective clothing (long sleeves and trousers)
• Choose light-colored clothing to spot ticks easily
• Apply approved acaricides on clothing
• Use tick repellents on skin and clothes
• Check your body and clothes regularly for ticks
• Remove ticks safely and promptly if found
• Eliminate tick infestations in animal shelters or barns
• Avoid tick-infested areas, especially during peak seasons

3. Reducing Animal-to-Human Transmission

People who work closely with animals should take precautions, especially during handling or slaughter:

• Use gloves and protective clothing during slaughtering, butchering, or culling
• Quarantine animals before they enter slaughterhouses
• Treat animals with pesticides at least two weeks before slaughter

4. Reducing Human-to-Human Transmission in the Community

Simple protective steps can help avoid secondary spread:

• Avoid close contact with CCHF-infected individuals
• Wear gloves and protective gear when caring for sick people
• Wash hands thoroughly and regularly after contact

Conclusion:

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever is preventable with the right knowledge and precautions. If you live or work in areas with livestock or ticks, awareness is your first line of defense. Simple habits — like wearing the right clothing, using repellents, and practicing hygiene — can go a long way in keeping you and your community safe.

For more information or symptoms consultation, always reach out to a qualified healthcare provider.