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Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever in Georgia

02 Aug 2022

Georgian media sources have reported 42 cases of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) resulting in 2 deaths in the country of Georgia since January 2022.  The majority of cases have been in the south region of Samtskhe-Javakheti and central region of Shida Kartli. 

CCHF is an infection spread by tick bites that can cause a severe viral illness accompanied by bleeding. It is considered endemic in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Eastern/Southern Europe.

CCHF was first reported in Georgia in 2009. In recent years, around 10 cases on average are reported in Georgia each year.

Advice for Travellers 

CCHF is extremely rare in travellers. The risk is higher if you are travelling to an area where the infection occurs and will be:

  • at increased risk of tick bites, for example whilst camping, hiking, visiting farms or animal sanctuaries
  • involved in the care or slaughter of animals
  • a healthcare worker who may be exposed to infected patients

If you are travelling to a high risk area, you need to be aware of the disease and how to prevent becoming infected by:

  • avoiding tick-bites
  • following appropriate infection control procedures if you are working in a health care setting
  • wearing gloves and other protective clothing if you are involved in the care or slaughter of animals

There is no vaccine available for use against CCHF in the UK.

See the Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever page for further information.