Iran: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever outbreak in Kerman and Fars /update 1

Event

Iranian health officials have confirmed at least ten fatal cases of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) between March 21 and early June. According to local sources, the most affected areas are Kerman and Fars provinces. A Ministry of Health spokesperson reported that the fatality rate of the current outbreak has been 10 percent for patients who have sought medical treatment, and 50 percent for patients who do not receive any treatment.

Context

CCHF is a tick-borne virus (Nairovirus) of the Bunyaviridae family. It has a fatality rate of 10 to 40 percent and is usually transmitted to people from ticks and infected livestock animals. Human-to-human transmission is also possible, and primarily occurs via close contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of an infected person. Symptoms include headache, high fever, back pain, joint pain, stomach pain, and vomiting. Red eyes, a flushed face, a red throat, and petechiae (red spots) on the palate are common. There is no vaccine available.

Advice

Individuals in Iran are advised to take measures against ticks (e.g. by wearing covering clothing and using insect repellent). Avoid close contact with livestock animals or with infected individuals.