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Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever

An important viral hemorrhagic fever for Türkiye, caused by a Bunyaviridae virus and transmitted by Hyalomma ticks.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever?

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by a Nairovirus from the Bunyaviridae family, transmitted by bites of Hyalomma genus ticks or by contact with the blood and tissues of infected animals.

It has been monitored as an important public health issue in Türkiye since 2002, with endemic activity especially in Central Anatolia, the Black Sea region, and Eastern Anatolia. Case numbers increase in the spring-summer months.

Following a 1-9 day incubation period, the disease begins with sudden fever, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, and nausea. Thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and elevated liver enzymes are early laboratory findings. In severe cases, bleeding and multi-organ failure may develop; mortality ranges from 5-30%.

Symptoms

Sudden onset of high fever
Severe headache and muscle pain
Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
Petechiae and ecchymoses on the skin
Gingival, nasal, and gastrointestinal bleeding
Liver and kidney involvement
Multi-organ failure in severe cases

Risk Factors

Engagement in animal husbandry and farming
Rural living and tick exposure
Slaughterhouse and veterinary workers
Travel to endemic areas
Contact with infected patients' blood (healthcare workers)
Outdoor activities during spring-summer
Failure to use protective clothing and repellents

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Febrile illness after tick contact in an endemic area
  • Fever, fatigue, and thrombocytopenia
  • Gingival and nasal bleeding
  • Abdominal pain and elevated liver enzymes
  • Sudden febrile illness in someone working with animals — for immediate evaluation

Treatment Methods

01
Supportive care (fluids, blood products, platelets)
02
Ribavirin (efficacy debated; may be considered early)
03
Intensive care support and management of organ failure
04
Isolation with protective equipment (in patient-care contact)
05
Long clothing, light-colored clothing, and DEET repellent outdoors
06
Proper tick removal technique using tweezers

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.