Current status of Crimean‐Congo hemorrhagic fever outbreaks in Uganda and other African countries

Abstract

Following the efforts of Ugandan government to battle the outbreak of Ebolavirus disease in September 2022, there is an outbreak of another zoonotic disease called Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF). 1 CCHF causes widespread epidemics in some regions where tick vector is primarily found. Recent outbreaks in Uganda have been documented, and it is believed that this is due to the quiet spread of the pathogen from animals and ticks to people. The aim of this writeup is to discuss the current and past outbreaks of CCHF in Uganda and Other African countries and provide necessary recommendations needed to prevent future outbreaks. | OVERVIEW OF CCHFCCHF is a viral hemorrhagic fever that belongs to the genus Orthonairovirus and family Nairoviridae, 2 with a case fatality rate of 10-40% and mortality rate of 30% after the second weeks of the disease. 1 This virus is endemic in Africa, Asia, and Europe. 1 Grassland and shrub in these areas are favorable to ticks which is a key indicator of virus distribution. 3 The virus's geographic spread is correlated with that of the primary vectors, Hyalomma ticks. However, Rhipicephalus and Dermacentor ticks can also carry the CCHF virus, making them a potential source of transmission. 4 The disease is a zoonotic illness that can infect people by tick bites, or contact with contaminated blood or animal tissues, transmission from human to human is uncommon. 5 Therefore, individuals working in the livestock industry, animal farms, farmers, and veterinarians are at high risk of infection. Typically, the period of incubation is 1-9 days after a tick bite and 5-13 days after getting into contact with infectious fluids. 2 Infected individuals manifest a broad range of clinical symptoms which are characterized by fever, headache, vomiting, and diarrhea. Skin rashes, hematoma, epistaxis, and melena might be seen. However, in the advanced stage of the illness, the patient may pass away from shock or organ failure. 6 Laboratory findings may further reveal some hematological abnormalities. There is no specific treatment for CCHF. The majority of the available CCHF treatment is supportive. The support treatments include; close attention to the fluid and electrolyte balance, ventilation support for appropriate oxygenation, moderate sedation, and hemodynamic support. 7