Uganda: Three deaths of suspected Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever being investigated
A spokesman for the Ugandan Health Ministry said Friday they are investigating the deaths of three people that are suspected of having Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), according to a Reuters report today.
In addition to the three cases, health authorities are also treating a confirmed case of CCHF.
Hyalomma tick
Image/CDC
Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a tick borne viral infection found widely in Africa, Asia, the former USSR, eastern Europe and the Middle East.
The CCHF virus circulates between wild and domestic animals; sheep, goats, cattle and hares, and are transmitted to humans by the bite from the Hyalomma tick bite.
It is frequently a self-limiting disease in sporadic cases but under epidemic conditions fatality may be as high as 50%.
After a incubation of 3-6 days the patient experiences a sudden onset of fever, headache, chills, and body aches. Red eyes, a flushed face, a red throat, and petechiae (red spots) on the palate are common.
In about 25% of cases, hemorrhage can occur with severe nosebleeds and bruising. Treatment is based on supportive care.
Image/CIA
People that work with susceptible animals are at risk for CCHF. Health care workers are also at risk due to transmission through blood and possible airborne transmission.
There is no vaccine for CCHF. Preventive measures are using DEET insect repellant and other methods to prevent tick bites.
The ministry said it was tracking six other people who had come into contact with the sick farmer, being treated at Kalongo Hospital in Agago district, 450 km north of the capital Kampala, and that an isolation facility had been set up.
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