The virus, which originated in Iraq and Namibia, has already caused cases in Spain and recorded fatalities in Pakistan. Health authorities have issued an urgent warning, labelling it the current greatest threat to public health, with fears that climate change may accelerate its spread.
CCHF is transmitted through ticks and is caused by the Nairovirus. The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that it has a fatality rate ranging from 10 to 40 per cent. Insiders speaking to Parliament's Science, Innovation, and Technology Committee revealed that it is highly likely that the UK will soon see cases of CCHF.
James Wood, head of veterinary medicine at Cambridge University, highlighted during the hearing that CCHF could enter the UK through ticks. The disease is believed to be expanding beyond its usual territories due to the effects of climate change, potentially reaching countries like Britain and France.
The symptoms of CCHF include headaches, high fever, joint and back pain, stomach ache, and vomiting. Patients may also experience red eyes, a flushed face, a red throat, and the presence of red spots on the palate known as petechiae. In severe cases, jaundice, mood swings, and sensory perception issues can occur. As the illness progresses, severe bruising, nosebleeds, and uncontrolled bleeding at injection sites may be observed for about two weeks.
Fatality rates in hospitalised patients during documented outbreaks of CCHF have ranged from nine to 50 per cent. However, the long-term effects and specific complications in survivors are not well-studied. It is important to note that recovery from CCHF is slow.
Authorities are urging vigilance and reinforcing preventive measures to mitigate the risk of an outbreak. Strict surveillance, effective tick control, and public awareness campaigns are essential in managing the potential threat posed by the virus.