Watch out for ticks! What to do against increasing CCHF cases in the summer months?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ünüvar stated that CCHF is a serious and fatal viral hemorrhagic disease caused by a virus of the Nairovirus genus from the Bunyaviridae family. Recalling that the disease was first identified in Crimea in 1944 and then in Congo in 1956, Ünüvar stated that the CCHF virus is mainly transmitted through ticks of the Hyalomma genus.

ATTENTION AT-RISK GROUPS!

Ünüvar emphasized that in addition to direct contact with ticks, contact with the blood and tissues of sick animals also carries a risk of transmission, and said that especially those engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry, healthcare workers and those in close contact with infected individuals should be careful.

CCHF SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT PROCESS

Ünüvar, who stated that CCHF, which starts with symptoms such as high fever, headache, weakness, muscle pain, vomiting and diarrhea, can progress with bleeding in the advanced stages, said, “The disease is diagnosed with tests such as PCR and ELISA along with clinical symptoms.” He stated that although there is no specific drug in the treatment, supportive treatments are applied. He added that although the antiviral drug called ribavirin is used from time to time, its effectiveness is not certain.

PROTECTIVE MEASURES SAVE LIVES

Ünüvar, who emphasized the importance of individual precautions against ticks, said, “Especially in fields, gardens, forests and picnic areas, long-sleeved, light-colored clothing should be preferred, trouser legs should be tucked into socks and insect repellents containing 20-30 percent DEET should be used.” The expert said that it is necessary to check frequently whether there are ticks on the body and that it is also vital to remove ticks properly.

“DO NOT GIVE UP ON EARLY DIAGNOSIS”

Ünüvar, who pointed out that CCHF can cause high rates of morbidity and mortality, emphasized the importance of awareness and education activities, stating that early diagnosis, effective isolation and protective measures play a critical role in the fight against the disease.