Crimean-Congo haemorragic fever cases linked to tick bites reported in Europe

According to ECDC’s latest report on the topic, in 2022, the EU/EEA saw 4 cases of CCHF and 2 deaths as a result. While no cases were reported in 2023, in 2024, Spain has recorded one fatal case of CCHF.

The virus that causes CCHF is primarily spread by the Hyalomma marginatum tick which is widely distributed in southern and eastern Europe as well as H. lusitanicum which is found in parts of southern Europe. 

The changing climate could lead to these tick species and the disease spreading further into the continent. A 2023 report on the spatial distribution of CCHF in Europe found that areas of ecological suitability for CCHF extend further north than earlier suggested. 

CCHF is characterised by a sudden onset of flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, myalgia and malaise as well as photophobia, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and vomiting. In the most severe cases, haemorrhagic symptoms such as bruising, nosebleeds and uncontrolled bleeding at injection sites can occur. In patients who are hospitalised, CCHF can be fatal in around 30% of cases. 

While the risk of contracting CCHF in the areas where the virus is known to be present remains low for the general population, people doing outdoor activities, farmers, animal breeders, veterinarians, people engaged in informal slaughtering, hunters and healthcare workers are all at higher risk and should follow national guidelines and take precautions to prevent exposure. 

Precautions include, including wearing protective clothing and using chemical tick repellent such as N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET) and icaridin. In healthcare settings, following infection control protocols and wearing appropriate PPE is vital when treating suspected cases of CCHF. 

There is no vaccine against CCHF approved for use across Europe.