Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) Virus

Facts for Prelims

Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) Virus

News: Climate change is aiding the spread of the deadly Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus in Europe, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

What is CCHF?
• Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a viral disease transmitted by ticks (Hyalomma ticks). It can also be contracted through contact with infected animal tissues.
• Congo fever was first discovered in Crimea in 1944 and was later named as Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.
• CCHF outbreaks pose a public health threat, as the virus can lead to epidemics and has a high fatality rate.
• The symptoms include fever, muscle ache, headache, and bleeding.
• At present there is no vaccine for CCHF.
• It is endemic to Africa, the Balkan countries, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.