Mali: Congo-Crimean hemorrhagic fever cases reported in Mopti region

Event

Multiple cases of Congo-Crimean hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) have been reported in Mopti region in 2020. As of Wednesday, February 5, health officials have reported 14 cases and seven fatalities since the beginning of the year. The most recent deaths were recorded on February 1 in the village of Samoa. According to Malian health officials, these are the first reported cases of CCHF within the past ten years.

Further spread of the disease is possible in the region over the coming days and weeks.

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 Mopti region 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.