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Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever in United Kingdom (Ex Bulgaria)

08 Jul 2014

Public Health England has recorded a confirmed case of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) in a UK traveller who was bitten by a tick during a holiday in Bulgaria. The patient is responding well to treatment and there is no risk to the general population.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a haemorrhagic fever caused by a virus. CCHF infects a range of domestic and wild animals. It is spread via the bite of an infected tick. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, dizziness, neck pain and stiffness, backache, headache, sore eyes and sensitivity to light.

Advice for Travellers

The risk of CCHF for tourist travellers visiting endemic areas is very low if precautions are taken and reports of travel-related cases are uncommon. The majority of cases occur amongst those working in agriculture including animal husbandry, veterinarians or animal slaughter workers. Travellers experiencing any of the symptoms above on return from Bulgaria should consult their GP.

Travellers to affected areas are advised to take measures to minimise their exposure to ticks.