Investigation Around Cases of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever-Mauritania, 2022

Background Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic arbovirosis. Humans are infected by tick bites or contact with blood of infected animals. CCHF can be responsible for severe outbreaks due to human-to-human transmission. Our aims were to increase awareness and promote the search for risk factors and disease monitoring to prevent CCHF epidemic, capacity building, appropriate measures to treat patients, and information for the local population. Methods During the outbreak of hemorrhagic fever from February to May 2022, blood samples were collected from 88 patients suspected to be infected with the virus. Diagnosis was established by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and/or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results CCHF was confirmed by RT-PCR in 7 of 88 (8%) patients. Ticks were found in cattle, sheep, or goats in the areas where the subjects resided, with the exception of 1 CCHF-positive patient in close contact with fresh animal meat. Exposure to potential risk factors was found in all patients. The interval between the onset of symptoms and hospital admission was 2-3 days. All 7 patients were admitted to our hospital and treated promptly by blood transfusion. Two patients died. Conclusions Mortality is high in patients with the hemorrhagic form of CCHF. Disease prevention is necessary by strengthening vector control, avoiding contact and consumption of organic products from diseased animals, and vaccinating animals in areas where the disease is endemic. Furthermore, it is essential to establish management procedures for patients infected with CCHF virus.

Automated summary

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), a tick-borne disease with a risk of human-to-human transmission, was investigated during an outbreak in 2022. Out of 88 suspected cases, 7 were confirmed positive for CCHF through RT-PCR. All patients had potential exposure to risk factors. The study emphasizes the importance of vector control, avoiding contact and consumption of infected animal products, and animal vaccination for disease prevention.