🈴DR-ABDOMEN

A 51-year-old cattle breeder from Gujarat, identified as Mohanbhai, succumbed to Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) on January 27, 2025. He was admitted to the hospital on January 21 and passed away six days later. This incident marks the first reported case of CCHF in Gujarat in five years. citeturn0search0

Understanding Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)

CCHF is a severe viral disease caused by a tick-borne virus (Nairovirus) of the Bunyaviridae family. The disease is characterized by rapid onset of symptoms, including high fever, muscle aches, dizziness, neck pain, backache, headache, sore eyes, and sensitivity to light. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are also common. As the disease progresses, patients may experience sharp mood swings, confusion, and eventually, severe bruising, nosebleeds, and uncontrolled bleeding at injection sites. The case fatality rate ranges from 10% to 40%. citeturn0search2

Transmission and Risk Factors

The CCHF virus is primarily transmitted to humans through bites from infected ticks, particularly those of the Hyalomma genus. Additionally, direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected animals or humans can lead to transmission. Individuals working in agriculture, slaughterhouses, and veterinary services are at heightened risk due to their increased exposure to livestock and potential contact with infected tissues. citeturn0search2

Geographical Distribution

CCHF is endemic in regions of Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East, and Asia, particularly in countries situated below the 50th parallel north. In India, the first confirmed presence of CCHF was reported in Gujarat in 2011 during a nosocomial outbreak. Since then, sporadic cases and outbreaks have been documented in various districts of the state. citeturn0search3

Prevention and Control Measures

Preventing CCHF involves several strategies:

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  Tick Control: Implementing measures to control tick populations in livestock and surrounding environments can reduce the risk of transmission.

• Protective Clothing: Individuals in high-risk professions should wear protective clothing to minimize skin exposure to ticks.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Healthcare workers and those handling animals should use appropriate PPE to prevent contact with potentially infected blood or tissues.

• Public Awareness: Educating communities about the risks of tick bites and the importance of early medical consultation if symptoms arise is crucial.

Treatment

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for CCHF. Management focuses on supportive care to maintain hydration, electrolyte balance, and hemodynamic stability. The antiviral drug ribavirin has been used in some cases, but its efficacy remains uncertain. citeturn0search10

Conclusion

The recent fatality in Gujarat underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in regions where CCHF is endemic. Early detection, public education, and adherence to preventive practices are essential to mitigate the impact of this severe disease.