the threat of the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus looms – La Nouvelle Tribune

First identified in Crimea in 1944, later described in Congo In 1969, the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus. (FHKK) poses a serious threat to public health. Transmitted by ticks, this viral disease can cause symptoms ranging from fever and headache to severe internal and external bleeding. The severity of symptoms and the ease of transmission from animals to humans greatly increase the risks associated with this virus.

Last Wednesday, Corsica’s Regional Health Agency warned of the presence of the FHCC virus in local ticks, signaling an alarming development in the situation. Originally discovered in cattle, the virus is now found in ticks, increasing the risk of direct transmission to humans.

The announcement highlighted the importance of vigilance, especially regarding tick migration. Gialomma, the carrier of the virus, which is assisted by birds arriving from other regions of the Mediterranean. Since March, this information has been included in health monitoring messages addressed to health professionals and local authorities.

To counter this threat,ARS recommends taking preventive measures when going out into nature. It is advisable to wear long, light-colored clothing and carefully inspect all parts of the body and clothing after being in a tick-infested area.

At the national level, the National Agency for Food Safety, Environment and Occupational Health (Anses) expected from the summer of 2023 the potential risks of this fever in France. This highlighted the need for strict surveillance and proactive response from health authorities.

Initiatives are currently underway to raise awareness among the public and high-risk groups about the precautions that should be taken. From May, monitoring of insect-borne diseases will also be strengthened as part of the fight against arboviruses. These measures are vital to preventing the spread of CCHF and protecting communities at risk.