First identified in Crimea in 1944 and later described in Congo in 1969, the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (FHCC) represents a serious threat to public health. Transmitted by ticks, this viral pathology can cause symptoms ranging from fever and headache to severe internal and external bleeding. The severity of symptoms and the ease of transmission between animals and humans significantly increase the risks associated with this virus.
Last Wednesday, the Regional Health Agency in Corsica warned of the presence of the FHCC virus on local ticks, thus signaling a worrying development in the situation. Initially detected in cattle, the virus is now found in ticks, increasing the danger of direct transmission to humans.
The announcement reinforced the importance of vigilance, particularly with tick migration Hyalomma, vector of the virus, helped by birds coming from other Mediterranean regions. From March, this information was integrated into health monitoring communications addressed to health professionals and local authorities.
To counter this threat, theARS recommends adopting preventive behaviors when going out into the natural environment. It is advisable to wear long, light-colored clothing and to carefully examine all parts of the body and clothing after spending time in a tick-infested area.
Nationally, the National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (Anses) had anticipated from the summer of 2023 the potential risks of emergence of this fever in France. This highlighted the need for rigorous surveillance and a proactive response from health authorities.
Initiatives are underway to increase information to the public and high-risk groups on the precautions to take. Monitoring of diseases transmitted by insects will also be intensified from May, as part of the fight against arboviruses. These measures are vital to preventing the spread of CCHF and protecting at-risk communities.
