Perspective, J Virol Antivir Vol: 12 Issue: 3

A Quiet Pandemic: Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever

Vorica Heimann^*

¹Department of Microbiology with Parasitology and Immunology, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia

*Corresponding Author: Vorica Heimann,
Department of Microbiology with Parasitology and Immunology, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
E-mail: heimann.v@univ.rs

Received date: 30 August, 2023, Manuscript No. JVA-23-116883;

Editor assigned date: 01 September, 2023, PreQC No. JVA-23-116883 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 15 September, 2023, QC No. JVA-23-116883;

Revised date: 22 September, 2023, Manuscript No. JVA-23-116883 (R);

Published date: 02 October, 2023, DOI: 10.4172/ 2324-8955.1000682.

Citation: Heimann V (2023) A Quiet Pandemic: Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever. J Virol Antivir Res 12:3.

Abstract

Description

In a world filled with infectious diseases, some grab the headlines more than others. COVID-19, Ebola, and Zika have all captured the world's attention in recent years. But there's another deadly virus lurking in the shadows, one that deserves our urgent attention i.e. Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF). CCHF is a viral disease with a mortality rate of up to 40%, making it one of the most lethal tick-borne illnesses known to humanity. Despite its devastating impact and the constant threat it poses to communities in endemic regions, it remains largely underreported and underfunded in the global fight against infectious diseases.

Origins and symptoms

The disease gets its name from its discovery in the Crimea region of Ukraine and the Congo region of Africa in the mid-20^th century. Since then, it has spread across several continents, including Europe, Asia, and Africa, driven by factors such as climate change, increased globalization, and human encroachment into wildlife habitats. But it's not just a problem for those in far-flung corners of the world; CCHF is a global concern that demands our collective action. CCHF is primarily transmitted to humans through ticks, but it can also be transmitted from person to person through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. The virus can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild fever and muscle pain to severe haemorrhagic manifestations such as nosebleeds, gum bleeding, and, in the worst cases, organ failure. However, diagnosing CCHF can be challenging, and there is currently no specific antiviral treatment available.

The deadly nature of CCHF

One of the most concerning aspects of CCHF is its potential for human-to-human transmission. In healthcare settings, where patients with CCHF often require intensive medical care, healthcare workers are at particular risk. Inadequate infection control measures, such as insufficient personal protective equipment or lack of proper training, can turn hospitals into breeding grounds for the virus. This not only endangers the lives of healthcare professionals but also increases the risk of community-wide outbreaks. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CCHF has been reported in over 30 countries, with thousands of cases recorded annually. The true numbers are likely much higher due to underreporting and misdiagnosis, especially in resource-limited settings.

Under-reported and under-funded disease

Reason for the lack of attention is the absence of a high-profile global outbreak like Ebola or COVID-19. The sporadic nature of CCHF cases and its geographical dispersion make it less likely to capture the world's imagination. However, this should not be an excuse for inaction. CCHF's steady march across borders and its potential for human-to-human transmission mean it could become the next global health crisis if we do not act now. Another reason for the lack of attention is the relatively small number of cases compared to more common diseases. But this should not be the sole criterion for allocating resources and attention to a disease. CCHF's high mortality rate and potential for outbreaks make it a significant public health threat that must be addressed proactively.

Proactive measures

To tackle CCHF effectively, we must take a multi-pronged approach. First and foremost, we need increased investment in research to develop diagnostic tools, treatments, and vaccines. The scientific community should prioritize CCHF alongside other infectious diseases, ensuring that we have the necessary tools to combat it. Second, healthcare systems in endemic regions need support to strengthen their capacity to detect and manage CCHF cases. This includes training healthcare workers, improving infection control measures, and providing the necessary resources and equipment. Global health organizations and governments must work together to develop surveillance systems, share information, and provide financial assistance to affected countries.

Conclusion

Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever may not be in the spotlight like some other infectious diseases, but it is a silent epidemic that demands our attention. With its high mortality rate, potential for human-to-human transmission, and steady spread across continents, CCHF has the potential to become the next global health crisis. We cannot afford to wait until it's too late. It's time to shine a light on CCHF, invest in research and healthcare infrastructure, and work together to protect vulnerable communities worldwide.