01/06/2025
🦠 Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF): A Serious Zoonotic Threat – What Veterinarians and Animal Handlers Need to Know 🐄🩺
As veterinary professionals, we play a critical role in preventing zoonotic diseases, especially during high-risk seasons. One of the most concerning of these diseases is Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) — a tick-borne viral disease that can spread from animals to humans, especially during slaughtering, skinning, and close animal contact.
🔬 What is CCHF?
CCHF is caused by the Nairovirus, primarily transmitted through:
Bites from infected Hyalomma ticks
Contact with blood, tissues, or secretions of infected animals
Secondary human-to-human transmission through bodily fluids
👨⚕️ Why Should Veterinarians Be Concerned?
Veterinarians, livestock handlers, and butchers are high-risk groups due to their close contact with potentially infected animals. CCHF often shows no symptoms in animals, making it harder to detect and control.
🧪 Symptoms in Humans Include:
Sudden high fever
Muscle aches and dizziness
Vomiting and diarrhea
Bleeding from nose, gums, or under the skin
💀 The disease can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.
🛡️ Veterinary Safety Guidelines:
✔️ Always wear PPE (gloves, gowns, boots) when handling livestock
✔️ Inspect animals for tick infestations and treat accordingly
✔️ Educate farmers and handlers on safe practices
✔️ Ensure slaughterhouses follow biosecurity protocols
✔️ Properly dispose of animal waste and blood
✔️ Report any suspicious animal deaths or illnesses to authorities
🕌 Eid al-Adha Reminder:
With increased animal movement and home slaughtering during Eid, the risk of CCHF transmission spikes. Please raise awareness in your communities and ensure proper hygiene and handling are observed.
📢 As veterinarians, let’s lead the fight against zoonotic diseases through science, service, and education.
Keep following IVMS Animal Care Unit.
