A 74-year-Old Man Bleeds From Eyes And Dies Due To A Rare Ebola-Like Virus In Spain, All You Need To Know

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A 74-year-old man in Spain has succumbed to Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) after being bitten by a tick. The incident occurred near his weekend home in Toledo. He was later moved to an isolation unit in Madrid, where he was diagnosed with the rare virus. This marks the second CCHF case in Spain this year and the first fatality since May 2020.

Initial symptoms of CCHF include fever, muscle aches, abdominal pain, sore throat, and vomiting. The disease can also lead to mood swings, confusion, sleepiness, and bleeding. Scientists are worried that global warming might allow the disease to spread beyond its usual regions, potentially reaching countries like Britain and France.

Global Warming Concerns

Experts have raised alarms about the possibility of CCHF expanding its reach due to climate change. Since 2016, Spain has reported around 15 cases of this infection. It is "highly likely" that the disease could soon appear in Britain, according to experts. However, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has stated that the current risk to the British public remains "very low".

There have been concerns that CCHF could spread beyond its usual territories due to global warming. This could potentially bring the disease to countries like Britain and France. Despite these concerns, experts believe that the immediate risk remains low for now.

The man who died is only the second person in Spain this year to contract CCHF.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) lists CCHF as one of nine pathogens most likely to cause a pandemic. Other tick-borne diseases on the watch list include dengue fever, chikungunya, West Nile disease, yellow fever, and zika.

Let us know what Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is and Causes, symptoms, risk factors and treatments associated with this disease.

What Is Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF)

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a severe viral disease transmitted primarily by ticks and caused by the Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV). First identified in the Crimea in 1944 and later in Congo, the disease has since been reported in various regions, including Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East, and Asia.

CCHF is characterized by sudden onset of fever, severe muscle pain, dizziness, neck pain, backache, headache, sore eyes, and photophobia (sensitivity to light). As the disease progresses, it can cause severe bleeding, organ failure, and, in some cases, death.
Know the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatments associated with CCHF, offering a comprehensive understanding of this serious infectious disease.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) Causes

CCHF is caused by the Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus, a member of the Nairovirus genus within the Bunyaviridae family. The primary mode of transmission to humans is through the bite of infected ticks, particularly those from the Hyalomma genus. The virus can also be transmitted through direct contact with blood or tissues from infected animals, such as livestock, or from person to person through contact with infectious blood or bodily fluids.

a. Tick Bites

The most common transmission route for CCHF is through the bite of infected ticks. Hyalomma ticks, which are found in many parts of Africa, Europe, and Asia, are the primary vectors. Humans can become infected when they are bitten by these ticks during activities such as farming, hunting, or handling animals.

b. Contact with Infected Animals

CCHF can also be transmitted through direct contact with the blood or tissues of infected animals. This is a significant risk for farmers, slaughterhouse workers, and veterinarians who handle livestock such as cattle, goats, and sheep. These animals can become infected through tick bites and can harbor the virus without showing symptoms.

c. Human-to-Human Transmission

Human-to-human transmission of CCHF can occur through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person. This is a particular risk in healthcare settings, where medical personnel may be exposed to the virus while treating patients with CCHF. Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and strict adherence to infection control protocols are essential to prevent transmission in these environments.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) Symptoms

The incubation period for CCHF ranges from 1 to 13 days, depending on the mode of transmission. The disease typically progresses through several stages, with symptoms varying in severity as the infection advances.

Initial Stage

• Sudden onset of high fever
• Severe headache
• Muscle pain
• Dizziness
• Neck pain and stiffness
• Backache
• Sore eyes and photophobia
• Sensitivity to light
• Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain

Hemorrhagic Stage

As the disease progresses, patients may enter the hemorrhagic stage, characterized by:

• Widespread bleeding from the gums, nose, and injection sites
• Bruising and petechiae (small red or purple spots on the skin)
• Gastrointestinal bleeding, leading to blood in vomit or stools
• Bleeding into internal organs

Late Stage

In severe cases, patients may develop signs of organ failure, including:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Kidney and liver failure
• Neurological symptoms such as confusion and tremors
• Shock and multi-organ dysfunction

Recovery Stage

For those who survive the hemorrhagic stage, the recovery period can be prolonged, with lingering symptoms such as:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Mood swings
• Memory issues

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of contracting CCHF:

a. Geographical Location

Living or working in areas where Hyalomma ticks are prevalent increases the risk of CCHF. These areas include parts of Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East, and Asia.

b. Occupational Exposure

Individuals who work in agriculture, livestock farming, slaughterhouses, and veterinary services are at higher risk due to their close contact with animals and potential exposure to ticks.

c. Healthcare Workers

Medical personnel are at risk, especially when treating patients with CCHF, due to the potential for human-to-human transmission through contact with infectious blood and bodily fluids.

d. Outdoor Activities

Engaging in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, or hunting in tick-infested areas can increase the likelihood of tick bites and subsequent infection.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for CCHF, and management primarily focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Early diagnosis and hospitalization are crucial for improving outcomes.

Supportive Care

a. Fluid and Electrolyte Management:

Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance is essential to prevent dehydration and support organ function.

b. Pain and Fever Relief:

Medications such as acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce fever.

c. Blood Transfusions:

In severe cases with significant bleeding, blood transfusions may be necessary to replace lost blood and improve clotting.

d. Ribavirin:

The antiviral drug ribavirin has shown some effectiveness in treating CCHF, particularly when administered early in the course of the disease. However, its use is still debated, and it may not be available in all regions.

Infection Control Measures

In healthcare settings, strict infection control measures are essential to prevent the spread of CCHF. This includes the use of PPE, proper disposal of contaminated materials, and isolation of infected patients.

Preventive Measures

a. Tick Control:

Reducing tick populations through the use of acaricides (chemicals that kill ticks) and managing vegetation in areas where ticks are common can help lower the risk of CCHF.

b. Personal Protection:

Wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and conducting regular tick checks can reduce the risk of tick bites.

c. Animal Handling Precautions:

Farmers and veterinarians should use gloves and other protective equipment when handling animals and their tissues.

By raising awareness and implementing effective strategies, we can better protect individuals and communities from this potentially deadly disease.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.