Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF): Dangers and Prevention Methods
Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is an extremely dangerous viral infection transmitted by ticks. Especially in the summer months, the risk of this disease increases with the increase in tick cases. CCHF is a health problem that should be taken seriously and its symptoms usually start with flu-like symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, it can lead to serious complications.
Symptoms and Course of CCHF
Symptoms of CCHF usually appear within 1-3 days after the virus enters the body. The first symptoms include weakness, headache, diarrhea ve stomach pain In cases where these symptoms are not noticed in the initial stages of the disease, more serious symptoms may develop as the disease progresses. At this stage, jaundice, bleeding ve shock table Situations such as these may occur. Therefore, it is vital to immediately apply to a health institution when symptoms are noticed.
Risk Areas and Transmission Routes
CCHF, especially Central Anatolia ve Central Black Sea It is frequently seen in the regions. Provinces such as Sivas, Tokat and Çorum are the places where tick-borne cases are most common in animal husbandry areas. Ticks can transmit the virus to humans by contracting it from animals or other hosts. In addition, birds can increase the risk by carrying ticks to different regions. Therefore, everyone who walks in nature and spends time in rural areas should be careful.
What to Do in Case of Contact with a Tick?
When the tick attaches itself to the body, it buries its head into the skin and begins to suck blood. During tick removal in public Commonly used methods, such as applying or heating olive oil, are extremely dangerous. This is because the tick contains a high level of virus in its salivary glands. If it is not removed with a suitable technique, the virus can directly enter the blood. Therefore, if a tick attaches, it must be removed by a specialist health care professional.
Prevention Methods
It is necessary to take some precautions to protect yourself from the risk of ticks. When going on nature walks or to rural areas, long clothes that cover the body completely should be preferred. Trouser legs Putting your socks inside your socks can prevent ticks from touching your skin. Also, wearing light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks. It is also important to check your body after outdoor activities and remove any ticks immediately.
CCHF Cases and Precautions in Sivas
The cases related to Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Sivas province are being taken seriously. With the recent death of a patient under treatment in Gölova district, the number of deaths caused by ticks has increased to 8. This situation shows that awareness of CCHF in society needs to be increased. Local health institutions are organizing various campaigns to raise public awareness and ensure that the necessary precautions are taken.
What You Need to Know About CCHF
- Ticks pick up the virus from animals and can transmit it to humans.
- The symptoms are similar to flu and can lead to serious complications in the later stages.
- Proper tick removal is critical to preventing the spread of disease.
- For protection, appropriate clothing should be chosen and body checks should be performed after nature activities.
Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, is a health problem that must be taken seriously. It is essential for health institutions and society to be aware of this issue in order to prevent the spread of the disease. Being careful and taking the necessary precautions is of great importance for both individuals and public health.
