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CCHF Virus Infection
Date :
22/01/2011 |
Discription :
The viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHF) are a disease group of animal and human illnesses caused by RNA viruses and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is one of them, which has been recently reported from Gujarat.
Althoug primarily found in animals, sporadic cases and outbreaks of CCHF affecting humans do occur. The disease is endemic in Africa, Europe and Asia but outbreaks in other countries have also been reported. In India it is probably for the first time that infection with CCHF virus has been reported.
Tick is its intermediatory host, which is responsible in a major way for its spread. Humans who became infected by CCHF virus acquire the disease from direct contact with blood or infected tissues or by a tick bite.
The incubation period varies between 2-12 days. The patient usually presents with sudden onset of fever, myalgia and generalised bodyache, headache and vomiting. Gradually the patients condition deteriorate and signs of brain involvement, enlarged lymphnodes and haemorrhagic features occur and in the last multi organ failure. Mortality rate is about 30% and maximum mortality occurs in second week of illness.
TREATMENT: It comprises of ribavirin (anti-viral drug) along with supportive and replacement therapy under strict medical supervision.
PREVENTION: IT IS THE MAIN STAY OF TREATMENT
There is no vaccine available yet
The following measures are advised to avoid further spread of the disease.
1. Tick control with chemicals capable to kill ticks is the only realistic option.
2. Persons move prove to the exposure, should use repellants along with proper coverage of the body and use of hand gloves.
3. On hospitalisation, other than keeping in isolation wards and all possible infection control measures should be taken.
4. Persons who come into contact of a patient, they should be under strict medical supervision at least for 15 days from the day of exposure. |
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