Journal of Hematology & Thromboembolic Diseases
Open Access

Breif Note on Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever in Iraq

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Description

CCHF is an infectious disease caused by the Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever Virus (CCHFV). It is mainly transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks. Symptoms of CCHF include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The disease can sometimes become severe, leading to bleeding from the eyes, nose, gums, and other body parts. The mortality rate of CCHF is about 10%, although it can be as high as 30% in some cases.

The spread of CCHF in Iraq

The CCHF virus is endemic in Iraq, as in many other Middle Eastern countries. It has been reported in Iraq since 1959 and is mainly found in the northern part of the country. In the past four decades, the number of cases has increased exponentially, with six reported cases between 1989 and 2020. In 2022, the WHO reported a sharp increase in CCHF cases in Iraq, with 1,085 suspected cases of the virus, making it one of the highest in recent years. This is a cause for alarm, as it increases the risk of transmission through laboratory tests and other activities. In response, healthcare professionals are advised to stay alert for patients with symptoms of CCHF and follow the identity, isolate, and inform strategy to reduce viral transmission. In recent years; there have been several outbreaks of CCHF in Iraq, mainly due to the lack of awareness among the population. In addition, the current instability in the country is contributing to the spread of the virus, as people are less likely to take precautions against the disease.

Risk factors for CCHF in Iraq

The risk of CCHF in Iraq is mainly related to the lack of awareness among the population. People are less likely to take preventive measures against the disease, such as wearing protective clothing outdoors and avoiding contact with wild animals. In addition, the country's current political and economic instability has led to a decrease in access to healthcare, making it more challenging to diagnose and treat CCHF.

Another risk factor for CCHF in Iraq is the climate. The country’s hot and humid weather makes it an ideal environment for the CCHF virus to thrive [8]. In addition, the presence of wild animals in the government increases the risk of transmission, as they can act as reservoirs for the virus.

Prevention strategies for CCHF in Iraq

Several strategies can be implemented to prevent CCHF outbreaks in Iraq. These include education campaigns to improve awareness of CCHF, the development of an early warning system, vaccination programs, and surveillance and monitoring of the disease. In Iraq, the disease is spread mainly through ticks and unpasteurised milk and meat consumption. Several key strategies must be implemented to help prevent the spread of CCHF in Iraq.

Vector control

Vector control involves the reduction of tick populations through the use of insecticides and the regular cleaning of animal enclosures. This strategy is especially important in rural farming areas, where livestock such as goats, sheep, and cattle are frequently kept. Additionally, educating farmers and rural communities about the importance of regularly inspecting and treating their animals for ticks is important.

Unpasteurized milk and meat

The consumption of unpasteurized milk and meat is a primary transmission source for CCHF, so it is important to implement measures that reduce their consumption and availability. This can be achieved by making sure that unpasteurized milk and meat are not sold in local markets and that farmers and rural communities understand the importance of only consuming pasteurized dairy and meat products.

Education campaigns to improve awareness of CCHF in Iraq

Education campaigns are an important tool for preventing CCHF in Iraq. These campaigns should focus on educating the public about the symptoms of the disease, how it is transmitted, and the preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection. The campaigns should also emphasize the importance of seeking medical attention if any symptoms of CCHF are present.

Development of an early warning system for CCHF in Iraq

In order to prevent CCHF outbreaks in Iraq, an early warning system should be developed. This system should be based on data from surveillance and monitoring of the disease and risk factors such as climate and the presence of wild animals. The system should be able to detect early signs of an outbreak, allowing for timely intervention to prevent or reduce its spread.

Vaccination programs for CCHF in Iraq

Vaccination is an effective way to prevent CCHF outbreaks in Iraq. Vaccines have been developed for the CCHF virus, and these should be made available to the population. In addition, there should be a focus on educating the public about the importance of vaccination and the safety and efficacy of vaccines.

Surveillance and monitoring of CCHF in Iraq

Surveillance and monitoring of CCHF in Iraq are essential for preventing and controlling the disease. Surveillance should be conducted at the national and local level, using data from laboratory tests, health care visits, and other sources. This will allow for the early detection of cases, identification of risk factors and the evaluation of prevention and control strategies.

Resources for prevention and control of CCHF in Iraq

In order to effectively prevent and control CCHF in Iraq, adequate resources must be available. These include funds for research, the development of diagnostic tests, and the implementation of prevention and control strategies. In addition, there should be a focus on training healthcare professionals in diagnosing and treating CCHF, as well as providing education and awareness campaigns for the public.

Conclusion

CCHF is a severe disease with a high mortality rate and is endemic in Iraq. To prevent CCHF outbreaks in Iraq in 2022, several strategies can be implemented, such as education campaigns, developing an early warning system, vaccination programs, and surveillance and monitoring of the disease, and providing adequate resources for prevention and control. By implementing these strategies, it is possible to reduce the risk of CCHF outbreaks in Iraq and protect the population from the dangers of this deadly disease.