Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is caused by infection with a tick-borne virus (Nairovirus) in the family Bunyaviridae. The disease was first characterized in the Crimea in 1944 and given the name Crimean hemorrhagic fever.
What are the symptoms of Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever?
The onset of CCHF is sudden, with initial signs and symptoms including headache, high fever, back pain, joint pain, stomach pain, and vomiting. Red eyes, a flushed face, a red throat, and petechiae (red spots) on the palate are common.
How is Crimean Congo fever transmitted?
Numerous wild and domestic animals, such as cattle, goats, sheep and hares, serve as amplifying hosts for the virus. Transmission to humans occurs through contact with infected ticks or animal blood. CCHF can be transmitted from one infected human to another by contact with infectious blood or body fluids.
How is CCHF diagnosed?
Laboratory tests that are used to diagnose CCHF include antigen-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), virus isolation attempts, and detection of antibody by ELISA (IgG and IgM).
How can Congo fever be prevented?
Agricultural workers and others working with animals should use insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Insect repellants containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) are the most effective in warding off ticks. Wearing gloves and other protective clothing is recommended.
Is there any vaccine for Congo fever?
There are currently no licensed vaccines or therapeutics to treat CCHF. The aetiological agent, CCHF virus (CCHFV), is a single-stranded, negative sense RNA virus classified within the Nairovirus genus of the family Bunyaviridae.
How is Congo fever treated?
Treatment for CCHF is primarily supportive. Care should include careful attention to fluid balance and correction of electrolyte abnormalities, oxygenation and hemodynamic support, and appropriate treatment of secondary infections. The virus is sensitive in vitro to the antiviral drug ribavirin.
How long does Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever last?
| Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever | |
|---|---|
| Duration | Two weeks |
| Diagnostic method | Detecting antibodies, the virus’s RNA, or viral proteins (antigens). |
| Differential diagnosis | Dengue fever, Q fever, Ebola virus disease |
| Treatment | Supportive care, ribavirin |
Is Congo fever curable?
What are the complications of Crimean-Congo fever?
Context: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne acute viral hemorrhagic fever with variable complications and mortality. Its mortality rate could be as high as 60% – 80% or as low as 0% – 5%. The most common complications are hemorrhage, shock, DIC, and multi-organ failure that might result in death.
