Hemorrhagic fever in Iraq

There are many viruses causing the hemorrhagic fever like Ebola virus, Dengue viruses and many other viruses but the most common in Iraq is Crimean- congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHFV ). Although there are suspicion of Rift Valley virus also attack Iraq but till now not proved.

Way of transmission?

The CCHF virus is transmitted to people either by tick bites or through contact with infected animal blood or tissues during and immediately after slaughter. The majority of cases have occurred in people involved in the livestock industry, such as agricultural workers, slaughterhouse workers and veterinarians.

Human-to-human transmission can occur resulting from close contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected persons. Hospital-acquired infections can also occur due to improper sterilization of medical equipment, reuse of needles and contamination of medical supplies.

Is the virus died by heating?

The virus died if boiled for more than 30 minutes in high temperature.

Is the virus infect animals ?

The virus infect animals with 98% asymptomatic features but they are infectious and minority are mild symptoms rare of animals are sever symptoms were it proved in our cases. Chicken might infected with CCHF.

Is the virus died by freezing?

The virus might die by freezing.

How are high risk people?

The high risk people to be infected with CCHF are slaughters, veterinarians, stock holders and traders, house wives in direct contact with fresh infected meat.

How to prevent infection?

Infection prevented by education of the people about the disease especially high risk people, through eradication of ticks, high care of animal hygiene, safe handling og the meat and treatment of all infected human and animals .

How to treat human?

All suspected cases must ask for care by specialist in nearest hospital.

Professor Dr. Haitham Noaman Eyada AL-Koubaisy

Consultant of Intenal Medicine and Infectious Diseases

University of Anbar, College of medicine, Department Of Medicine