Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever is a virus that is spread by tick bites. The virus has been found in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Balkans. It can cause severe outbreaks of bleeding and death in people, but infected animals don't get sick from this virus. This means that animals are important in spreading this disease, both to ticks and directly to people, through contact with the blood or organs of infected animals.
Symptoms of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Animals
Animals that are infected with Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever don't get sick and don't show any symptoms. This means that they are carriers of the virus that causes Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, able to infect more ticks and act as a source of infection for this disease.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Animals
Routine testing for Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in animals isn't usually performed but might be done for surveillance (to keep track of the incidence of the disease). Tests include genetic testing for the virus and blood tests.
Because animals don't get sick with this disease, they don't need treatment.
Prevention of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Animals
The best way to prevent Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever is to prevent tick bites. For animals, vets can recommend specific medications to prevent tick bites or kill ticks on the animal.
Any person working with animals in areas where this virus is found should wear full personal protective equipment (PPE), like masks and gloves, to prevent contact with animals' blood or organs.
Important Human Health Points Regarding Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever is spread by ticks.
Animals are sources of infection but don't get sick.
Animals can't spread the disease directly to people unless they have direct contact with animals' blood or organs.
Tick protection and rapid removal of ticks are the best means of prevention.
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