Abstract
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is an infectious viral disease that has (re-)emerged in the last decade in south-eastern Europe, and there is a risk for further geographical expansion to western Europe. Here we report the results of a survey covering 28 countries, conducted in 2012 among the member laboratories of the European Network for Diagnostics of 'Imported' Viral Diseases (ENIVD) to assess laboratory preparedness and response capacities for CCHF. The answers of 31 laboratories of the European region regarding CCHF case definition, training necessity, biosafety, quality assurance and diagnostic tests are presented. In addition, we identified the lack of a Regional Reference Expert Laboratory in or near endemic areas. Moreover, a comprehensive review of the biosafety level suitable to the reality of endemic areas is needed. These issues are challenges that should be addressed by European public health authorities. However, all respondent laboratories have suitable diagnostic capacities for the current situation.
Highlights
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic viral disease caused by the tick-borne CCHF virus (CCHFV), which is classified into the genus Nairovirus within the Bunyaviridae family
Human silhouettes indicate occurrence of CCHF in humans according to the WHO database, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) consultation [13] and the Public Health England database
Some authors argue that Europe needs to implement a harmonised case definition for CCHF in order to enhance notifications and to estimate the diseases burden and epidemiological trends in various areas and countries [2]
Summary
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic viral disease caused by the tick-borne CCHF virus (CCHFV), which is classified into the genus Nairovirus within the Bunyaviridae family. The disease is highly pathogenic and life-threatening as it can cause severe illness with prominent haemorrhages reaching case fatality rates of up to 50%. Humans may become infected through the bite of a tick, mainly of the Hyalomma genus, through direct contact with blood or tissues from viraemic livestock or through direct contact with the blood or secretions of a viraemic patient [1]. Risk groups include individuals with outdoor activities, mainly those who have occupational contact with animals, as well as healthcare workers in hospital settings (nosocomial hazard). CCHFV is considered a high-risk pathogenic organism and classified as a biosafety level (BSL) 4 containment agent
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
