Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)

CCHF (Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever) is a virus caused infection transmitted to people by ticks and livestock animals. CCHF is one of the major ticks-borne infection caused by virus. Veterinary and health care personnel become easy prey for the disease. The transmission of the infection happens through the bite of a contaminated tick or because of direct contact with infected persons or through the products of affected animals. 

Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever- The reason behind the name

Nairovirus in the Bunyaviridae family of viruses is responsible for spreading CCHF.   The disease was first identified in 1944 in Crimea and was known as Crimean hemorrhagic fever. Later in 1969, the infection was identified as the cause of illness found in Congo. Thus the disease got the present name of Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever. 

Symptoms of CCHF

From the inception itself, CCHF display many signs and symptoms. It stars sudden and initial symptoms include high fever, back pain, head ache, joint pain, stomach pain and vomiting.  A flushed face, red eyes and throat and red spots on the palate are also common signs exhibited by CCHF.  In certain cases, symptom of jaundice and mood swings  are also associated with the disease.  

Between fourth day of illness till about two weeks, areas of bruising, severe nosebleeds and bleeding at injection sites are observed. According to the data available with the World Health Organization (WHO), the disease can cause severe haemorrhagic fever outbreaks. The fatality rate linked to CCHF can go up to 40-50%.  The disease is highly contagious. 

Diagnosis, treatment and recovery from CCHF

ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and RT-PCR (real time polymerase chain reaction) tests are the most common tests used for diagnosis of CCHF. Immunohistochemical staining is also used to identify infection. In the course of the disease, antibodies are observed in the blood. 

Treatment of CCHF includes careful attention to fluid balance and correction of electrolyte abnormalities, oxygenation and hemodynamic support. Treatment shall also be ensured for secondary infections. The drug ribavirin is widely used in treatment. The recovery is normally a slow process. 

Areas from where CCHF has been reported

Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is often seen in endemic rural regions. CCHF is observed in Easter Europe, especially in the areas covered by the former Soviet Union, Southern Europe, the Mediterranean area, central Asia, Africa, the Middle East, northwestern China and India. 

First report of CCHF in India was from Gujarat in 2011 and three patients lost their lives. Another break out was reported in 2013 from Amreli district in Gujarat state itself. Now, in 2018, the disease is again reported Thrissur of Kerala state. It is identified in a non-resident Keralite from the UAE who is working as a butcher.  

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