Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Research Articles

Predictors of Mortality in Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Patients Admitted at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan over the Last 10 Years: A Case-Control Study.

The objective was to identify predictors of mortality in hospitalized patients with Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF). A case-control study was conducted on patients hospitalized with CCHF from 2012 to 2022. Risk factors for mortality in CCHF patients were analyzed using logistic regression. A total of 86 patients with a median age of 36 years (interquartile range [IQR], 27-36 years) were included, and the majority were males (78, 90.7%). Thirty-one patients (36%) were cases, whereas 55 (64%) were control patients. Based on univariate logistic regression analysis, patients who were in an age group of ≥40 years (odds ratio [OR]: 4.85; 95% CI: 1.8-12.4) or with presence of gum bleeding (OR: 2.66; 95% CI: 1.0-6.8), unit increase in white blood cell count (WBC) (OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.00-1.07), serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase of ≥500 U/L (OR: 3.68; 95% CI: 1.4-9.3), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) of ≥1,000 U/L (OR: 8.72; 95% CI: 2.6-28.3), prothrombin time (PT) of ≥120 seconds (OR: 9.85; 95% CI: 3.2-29.8), international normalized ratio of ≥5 (OR: 15.8; 95% CI: 2.0-125.3), or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (OR: 28.27; 95% CI: 5.84-136.9) were found to be significantly associated with mortality in CCHF. Factors found to be independently associated with mortality on multivariate analysis included ARDS (adjusted OR [aOR]: 27.7; 95% CI: 4.0-190.5), unit increase in WBC (aOR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.02-1.26), SGOT of ≥1,000 U/L (aOR: 23.6; 95% CI: 2.32-241.7), and PT of ≥120 seconds (OR: 10.2; 95% CI: 2.00-52.4). CCHF is a rare but fatal disease, and patients with ARDS and increased WBC, high SGOT level, and increased PT indicative of liver injury and coagulopathy at the time of hospitalization are at high risk for mortality.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus Kinetics in Serum, Saliva, and Urine, Iran, 2018.

Little is known about using noninvasive samples for diagnosing Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF). We investigated detection of CCHF virus in serum, saliva, and urine samples. Our results indicate that serum is the best sample type for CCHF diagnosis; saliva can be used for noninvasive sampling.

Aptamer and Aptasensor Technology for Diagnosis of Infectious Diseases: A Mini Review

Aptamers are not so new a concept, however, it is scarcely discussed by medical fraternity. Aptamers are potent, new identification molecules set to rope in a new technique in the diagnostic arena. Aptamers have started almost a revolution in diagnostic assays since their discovery in the 90s. (Radu S. Current and previous disease outbreaks around the world, U.S. News & World Report. 2020 Mar 13 [cited 2024 Jun 17]. Available from: https://www.usnews.com/news/best-countries/slideshows/20-pandemic-and-epidemic-diseases-according-to-who) provides an overview of pandemics and epidemics as reported by the WHO. It is interesting to note that several endemic and epidemic diseases viz. Chikungunya, Cholera, Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever, Ebola virus disease, Hendra virus infection, Influenza, Lassa fever, Marburg virus disease, Meningitis, MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus), Monkeypox, Nipah virus infection, Novel coronavirus, Plague, Rift Valley fever, SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), Smallpox, Tularaemia, Yellow fever, and Zika virus disease have been identified by the WHO and are being explored for applicability of aptamer technology in their identification. One of the most important necessities to control epidemic or pandemic diseases is early diagnosis. However, the majority of the diagnostic tests for these diseases are available only in tertiary care centres. The objective of this review is to discuss the potential of aptamer technology to provide undemanding, simple, specific, sensitive, and cost-effective diagnostic assays that are usable in remote and field conditions. Here, we discuss recent advances and approaches in aptamer and aptamer engineering useful in the diagnosis of infectious and non-infectious conditions. This review also discusses a few sensing discoveries which are a gift of advanced engineering and technology using optical and electrochemical aptasensors. It's still a long way to go, and we need to take into account the technological challenges being faced by aptamer-aptasensor technology.

First Detection of Antibodies Specific to Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus in Rural Populations of Gabon.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne viral disease with a mortality rate reaching up to 40% in humans. Currently, CCHF affects three continents: Asia, Europe, and Africa. An increase in confirmed cases in Africa has been observed since 2000. In Central Africa, several countries have reported the circulation of CCHV virus (CCHFV). However, in Gabon, there is a lack of recent data on the circulation of the virus in the Gabonese population. To provide an overview of the epidemiological situation in Gabon, we tested 3,081 human serum samples collected between 2005 and 2008 in villages throughout the country for anti-CCHFV antibodies. Using a double-antigen ELISA kit, our study found 15/3,081 samples positive for CCHFV. These positive samples were also tested using the Blackbox CCHFV IgG kit and the Luminex technique. These analyses confirmed seven and four positives for the Blackbox CCHFV IgG kit and the Luminex technique, respectively. This study suggests low circulation of CCHFV in the rural human population of Gabon. Competent authorities must survey CCHFV to identify and prevent clinical cases in the human population.

A survey of the tick-borne disease Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in southern Algeria: First serological evidence in the dromedary camel population

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne viral zoonosis caused by a Nairovirus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV). Despite its wide geographical distribution, the epidemiology of CCHF in northern Africa is incompletely understood and its occurrence in Algeria is virtually unknown. The present survey aimed to determine the prevalence of CCHF antibodies and to identify the potential risk factors associated with CCHFV seropositivity among the one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) in southern Algeria. A total of 269 camels selected randomly from slaughterhouses in three wilayas were employed in the study. Sera sampled were tested for the presence of CCHFV-specific IgG antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). CCHFV seropositivity was recorded in 255 out of 269 camels accounting for a prevalence rate of 94.8% (95%CI = 92.14–97.45). The seroprevalence by origin was determined to be 97% (193/199) in imported camels and 86% (49/57) in local ones (p > 0.25). Tick presence (OR = 12.35, 95%CI = 1.41–107.43, p < 0.05) was recorded as the only potential risk factor for contracting CCHFV. This study shows for the first time that camels are exposed to CCHFV in Algeria with a significantly high seroprevalence. It also underlines the need for further research to investigate the broader extent of circulating CCHFV in the country, whether in humans, animals, or ticks.

Identification, Characterization, and Homology Analysis of a Novel Strain of the Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus from Yunnan, China.

Wildlife serve as potential microbial reservoirs, accounting for approximately 70% of emerging infectious diseases. Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), which causes Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) in humans, is a highly pathogenic tick-borne virus prevalent in several parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe with high case fatality rates. Several CCHFV cases have been reported in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Southern and Eastern Europe. The disease is endemic in several parts of western China, particularly Xinjiang. Ticks of the genus Hyalomma have been identified as a principal vector and reservoir for CCHFV, although other tick species may also have a crucial role in maintaining CCHFV in endemic regions. On infection, CCHF begins as a nonspecific febrile illness that can progress to severe hemorrhagic manifestations with a higher case fatality due to the unavailability of vaccines or other therapeutic agents. In this study, we collected tissue samples from a wild dead Chinese serow (Capricornis milneedwardsii) and three Naemorhedus griseuses from Deqin County, Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China, to investigate for contagious viruses that could be transmitted to humans. We identified a novel CCHFV strain, YNDQL-415G, in the liver tissue of a dead C. milneedwardsii. We performed nucleotide and amino acid sequence homology on the full-length viral genome. The results revealed significant homology between the viral S segment to that of the Africa1 strain, while the M and L segments showed similarity with the Asia CCHFV strain, indicating potential gene reassortment in the YNDQL-415G strain. The genetic characterization of a novel CCHFV strain from a dead C. milneedwardsii raises concerns about the possibility of a new zoonotic infection. A regular survey program is recommended to track the distribution of wild animals as well as the viruses they may transmit to humans and other domestic mammals in the region.

Upsurge of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever During Eid-Al-Adha Period 2023 in Iraq

Background: Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne zoonotic disease. It has a case fatality rate of up to 40%. Animal sacrifices during the Eid-Al-Adha period are a common religious tradition in the country. Since 2021, Iraq has been plagued by a continuous epidemic. Objectives: To investigate the upsurge of CCHF cases during the Eid-Al-Adha period in 2023 and determine the times of high incidence and related risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using data derived from the Communicable Disease Control Center in Iraq during the period from June 19 to July 30, 2023, and included all laboratory-confirmed cases during the study period. The studied variables were categorized according to before, during and after the Eid period. The chi-square test and regression analysis were used to analyze the variables. Results: CCHF cases increased during the Eid period (118, compared to 63 before and 23 after). Slaughtering activities during the Eid period increased by more than 45%. Being a butcher and participating in slaughtering activities significantly contributed to the increase in cases during the Eid period. The only significant predictor identified was the presence of slaughtering activities before and after Eid, compared to the Eid period itself. Conclusions: CCHF cases increased during the Eid-Al-Adha period, which may be due to animal sacrifice activities during this Islamic festival.

NMR side-chain assignments of the Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus glycoprotein n cytosolic domain

Abstract. We assigned the side-chain resonances of the Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) glycoprotein n (Gn) cytosolic domain that is 69 amino acids long to complete the backbone resonances previously published by Estrada et al. (2011). The process was facilitated by three factors. First, sample preparation using cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) was completed in less than 2 d and allowed for correct zinc finger formation by adding zinc ions to the reaction. Second, access to NMR platforms with standardized pulse sequences allowed for data acquisition in 18 d. Third, data analysis using the online platform NMRtist allowed sequential resonance assignments to be made in a day, and assignments were verified and finalized in less than a week. Our work thus provides an example of how NMR assignments, including side chains, of small and well-behaved proteins can be approached in a rapid routine, at protein concentrations of 150 µM.

The six-year prevalence of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Erzurum, Turkey.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever disease (CCHF) is a potentially deadly viral disease and Turkey is the country in which the disease is seen the most. The purpose of this study is to estimate the frequency and case fatality ratio (CFR) of CCHF disease in Erzurum/Turkey between years 2015-2021. The CCHF positivity in patients was detected on serum samples via RT-PCR method with RNA detection. Demographic data belonging to positive patients, such as, age, sex, region of residence, tick contact was analyzed retrospectively. It was detected that the RT-PCR test of 521 patients out of a total of 1378 sent to the laboratory were positive. Each sample belonged to a single patient and repeating samples were left out of the research. The year with least positive patient ratio in relation to potential CCHF positive samples was 2017 (21.12%) whereas the year with the most positivity ratio was 2020 (55.48%) The case fatality ratio in the six-year period was calculated to be 1.34%. This study has demonstrated that there is a significant rise in CCHF patient numbers, especially in 2020 when the Covid-19 pandemic started. In order to prevent this rise, it is crucial that the effect of Covid-19 pandemic on the increase in interactions of humans with ticks is researched thoroughly, a biological intervention is made and the public awareness on CCHF disease is increased.

Microvascular Changes during Viral Infections: A Systematic Review of Studies Using Retinal Vessel Diameter Assessments.

Viral infection frequently affects the cardiovascular system, and vascular disturbances in patients can lead to health complications. One essential component of the cardiovascular system that is vulnerable to the inflammatory effects of viral infections is the microcirculatory system. As a suitable and practical non-invasive method to assess the structure and function of the retinal microcirculation, a proxy for the microcirculatory system, retinal fundus imaging can be used. We examined the impact of viral infections on retinal vessel diameters and performed a systematic analysis of the literature. Our search was carried out on PubMed using predefined search queries. After a methodological filtering process, we were able to reduce the corpus of 363 publications to 16 studies that met the search parameters. We used a narrative review style to summarise the observations. Six studies covered COVID-19, seven described HIV, and three were included in the subgroup called others, covering viruses, such as Dengue Fever and Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever. Analysis of the literature showed that viral infections are associated with alterations in the retinal vessels' vasoactivity. COVID-19 and other infections cause inflammation-associated the vasodilatation of microvasculature as a short-term effect of the infection. Long COVID-19 as well as HIV are the cause of chronic inflammation impacting microvascular morphology via retinal vessel diameter narrowing. The review emphasises the importance of the understudied area of viral infections' effects on retinal microcirculation. Continuous research in this area is needed to further verify retinal fundus imaging as an innovative tool for the optimal diagnosis of microvascular changes. As changes in the microvasculature precede changes in bigger arteries, the early detection of microvascular changes can go a long way in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases.

Investigation of hsa-miR-1908 and hsa-miR-144 Expression Levels in Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Patients

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick-borne zoonotic viral disease. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which play an important role in the regulation of gene expression, are involved in many processes essential for cell life such as development, differentiation, survival, apoptosis and aging. If miRNAs fail to fulfill their functions, they cause susceptibility to many diseases, including viral infections or cause the disease to be experienced in different clinical situations, such as severe or mild. In this study, we aimed to determine the expression levels of hsa-miR-144 and hsa-miR-1908 in CCHF patients and to compare the results in different clinical courses of CCHF disease. In this study, expression levels of hsa-miR-144 and hsa-miR-1908 were detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in blood samples obtained from 60 CCHF patients and 40 healthy individuals. We also investigated the differences in the expression levels of the microRNAs between patients with severe and non-severe disease or between patients who died and survived. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction data were uploaded to the "Data Analysis Center" (Qiagen, Germany) and analyzed using the ΔΔCq (ΔΔCt) method. p value was calculated according to Student's t test for genes in the study groups. The expression level of hsa-miR-144 decreased (fold change= 0.09) and the expression level of hsa-miR-1908 increased 1.44-fold in CCHF patients compared to the control group. The expression of hsa-miR-144 and hsa-miR-1908 increased 2 and 2.36-fold, respectively, in severe patients compared to non-severe patients. The expression levels of hsa-miR-144 and hsa-miR-1908 were 16.3- and 14.3-fold higher, respectively, in fatal cases compared to surviving patients and these results were statistically significant. In addition, the expression level of hsa-miR-144 was significantly decreased in patients with low leukocyte counts and the expression level of hsa-miR-1908 was significantly increased in patients with prolonged prothrombin time (PT). This is the first study in the literature investigating the expression level of hsa-miR-1908 in CCHF patients. In conclusion, the data of this study suggest that hsa-miR-144 and hsa-miR-1908 may be important biomarkers in predicting the prognosis and clinical course of CCHF disease.

Looking Beyond the Lens of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Africa.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a lethal viral disease that has severe public health effects throughout Africa and a case fatality rate of 10%-40%. CCHF virus was first discovered in Crimea in 1944 and has since caused a substantial disease burden in Africa. The shortage of diagnostic tools, ineffective tick control efforts, slow adoption of preventive measures, and cultural hurdles to public education are among the problems associated with continued CCHF virus transmission. Progress in preventing virus spread is also hampered by the dearth of effective serodiagnostic testing for animals and absence of precise surveillance protocols. Intergovernmental coordination, creation of regional reference laboratories, multiinstitutional public education partnerships, investments in healthcare infrastructure, vaccine development, and a One Health approach are strategic methods for solving prevention challenges. Coordinated efforts and financial commitments are needed to combat Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever and improve all-around readiness for newly developing infectious illnesses in Africa.

Development of an entirely cloned cDNA-based reverse genetics system for Tofla virus of orthonairovirus

The genus Orthonairovirus includes highly pathogenic tick-borne viruses such as the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever orthonairovirus (CCHFV). A reverse genetics system is an indispensable tool for determining the viral factors related to pathogenicity. Tofla orthonairovirus (TFLV) is a recently identified virus isolated from ticks in Japan and our research has suggested that TFLV is a useful model for studying pathogenic orthonairoviruses. In this study, we successfully established a reverse genetics system for TFLV using T7 RNA polymerase. Recombinant TFLV was generated by transfecting cloned complementary DNAs encoding the TFLV genome into BSR T7/5 cells expressing T7 RNA polymerase. We were able to rescue infectious recombinant TFLV mutant (rTFLVmt) and wild-type TFLV (rTFLVpt) viruses, which exhibited indistinguishable growth kinetics in mammalian cells and pathogenicity in A129 mice compared with the authentic virus. Our approach provides a valuable method for establishing reverse genetics system for orthonairoviruses.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever survivors elicit protective non-neutralizing antibodies that target 11 overlapping regions on glycoprotein GP38

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus can cause lethal disease in humans yet there are no approved medical countermeasures. Viral glycoprotein GP38, exclusive to Nairoviridae, is a target of protective antibodies and is a key antigen in preclinical vaccine candidates. Here, we isolate 188 GP38-specific antibodies from human survivors of infection. Competition experiments show that these antibodies bind across 5 distinct antigenic sites, encompassing 11 overlapping regions. Additionally, we show structures of GP38 bound with 9 of these antibodies targeting different antigenic sites. Although these GP38-specific antibodies are non-neutralizing, several display protective efficacy equal to or better than murine antibody 13G8 in two highly stringent rodent models of infection. Together, these data expand our understanding regarding this important viral protein and may inform the development of broadly effective CCHFV antibody therapeutics.

Evaluation of the Viral Hemorrhagic Fever Surveillance System in the Assaba region, Mauritania (2020-2022)

Several arboviral diseases have been known to be endemic (e.g., Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, Rift Valley fever) or are emerging (dengue fever, chikungunya, O'nyong-nyong) in human populations in Mauritania, while others have become rare in recent years (e.g. yellow fever). Moreover, domestic animals, especially cattle, camels, goats, and sheep, are also known to be infected with some of these arboviruses (e.g. Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, Rift Valley fever). For these reasons, viral hemorrhagic fever surveillance in Mauritania is part of the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR). However, limited information is available on the efficacy of the viral hemorrhagic fever surveillance system in the Assaba region of Mauritania. The aim of the present study was to assess the performance of the surveillance system, in particular its general utility, simplicity, flexibility, acceptability, and reactivity. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2022 in the Assaba region with the objective of evaluating the characteristics of the system by interviewing key actors involved in the surveillance of viral hemorrhagic fevers, with a focus on Rift Valley fever and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, using questionnaires developed following the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Atlanta, Georgia, USA). Data from 2020-2022 on viral hemorrhagic fevers from the National Institute of Public Health laboratory were analyzed. Medians, interquartile ranges, and proportions were calculated using Epi Info® 7.2.5.0 and Excel® 2021. The questionnaire was answered by all twenty-six persons involved in the viral hemorrhagic fever surveillance system in Assaba region. The majority of survey respondents found the system to be useful (51%), simple (63%), acceptable (46%), responsive (64%), and flexible (46%). An analysis of the data revealed a positive predictive value of 28% for Rift Valley Fever. The weekly distribution of cases within the wilaya indicates that the moughataa of Kiffa recorded the highest number of cases in September, with a notable weekly peak during that month in 2020. According to the analysis of the National Institute of Public Health database, cases of viral hemorrhagic fevers were promptly handled. Survey responses and database analysis revealed issues related to data quality and data management mechanisms. These limitations in the surveillance system are likely to be due to insufficient resources and training of the personnel, in particular with regards to data collection and management, which in turn led to incomplete or missing data and invalid data entry. These weak points can be ascribed, at least in part, to financial constraints and inadequate attribution of priority to arboviral diseases. Despite these limitations, disease data generated by the surveillance system were generally reliable. The viral hemorrhagic fever surveillance system in the Assaba region adheres to the organization and functioning of the national viral hemorrhagic fever surveillance system, which is part of the IDSR. The characteristics of utility, simplicity, responsiveness, and flexibility of the viral hemorrhagic fever surveillance system are good, but acceptability and flexibility need further improvement. The earlier the first arboviral human or animal cases are detected, the more likely an active intervention can be organized in response to the emerging epidemic or epizootic and prevent the spread of the disease. An efficient viral surveillance system is the key to reducing the negative impact of arboviral diseases in Assaba region.

Evaluate the Concordance Between Two Diagnostic Methods, RT-PCR And ELISA Techniques for the Detection of CCHFV in Karbala City

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is a widespread pathogen virus transmitted by ticks that causes a severe disease known as Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever in animals and humans. This study aims to investigate the occurrence of CCHFV in ticks and bovines in different regions of Karbala City/Iraq. Tick and blood samples were collected from four cattle farms, and molecular RT-PCR and serological analyses were conducted. The serum sodium concentration was calculated to compare infected and non-infected cattle with CCHFV. The study identified five tick genera, with Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus and Amblyomma variegatum being the most prevalent species. However, no ticks tested positive for CCHFV. Serological analysis of the blood samples showed that none was positive for IgM antibody, but 19.00% tested positive for IgG antibodies and 29.3% for both IgG and IgM. The seroprevalence was higher in cattle from Ayn al-time (36.70%) and Hindiya (16.70 %) compared to other regions, the study found fair concordance between the two serological and molecular assays used for diagnosis of CCHFV virus; as well as the study concluded that sodium levels are an important prognostic factor for CCHFV infection, cattle with CCHFV.

Risk Factors of Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever in Sindh Province, Pakistan

ObjectivesIn Sindh Province, Pakistan, confirmed Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) increased from zero in 2008 to 16 in 2015-2016. To counter this increase, in 2016, we initiated structured CCHF surveillance to improve estimates of risk factors for CCHF in Sindh and to identify potential interventions. MethodsBeginning in 2016, all referral hospitals in Sindh reported all CCHF cases to surveillance agents. We used laboratory-confirmed cases from CCHF surveillance from 2016 to 2020 to compute incidence rates and in a case–control study to quantify risk factors for CCHF. ResultsFor the 5 years, CCHF incidence was 4.2 per million for the Sindh capital, Karachi, (68 cases) and 0.4 per million elsewhere. Each year, the onset of new cases peaked during the 13 days during and after the 3-day Eid-al-Adha festival, when Muslims sacrificed livestock, accounting for 38% of cases. In Karachi, livestock for Eid were purchased at a seasonal livestock market that concentrated up to 700,000 livestock. CCHF cases were most common (44%) among the general population that had visited livestock markets (odds ratio = 102). ConclusionsUrban CCHF in Sindh province is associated with the general public's exposure to livestock markets in addition to high-risk occupations.

Pancreatitis as a Complication of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in a Child.

Pancreatitis as a Complication of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in a Child.

Seroprevalence study in humans and molecular detection in Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus in Thailand

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is an emerging tick-borne virus with a mortality rate of up to 30%. First identified in China in 2009, it was later reported in other Asian countries, including Thailand in 2020. SFTSV has been detected in several tick species, including Rhipicephalus sanguineus, known for infesting dogs. We conducted a seroprevalence study of SFTSV in Bangkok and Nong Khai, Thailand, by analyzing 1162 human samples collected between 2019 and 2023. The testing method relied on IgG detection using ELISA and confirmed though a virus seroneutralization test. The results indicated that out of the participants, 12 (1.1%) tested positive for anti-SFTSV IgG antibodies; however, none exhibited positive results in the seroneutralization assay. Additionally, molecular detection of SFTSV, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), Coxiella spp., Bartonella spp., and Rickettsia spp. was performed on 433 Rh. sanguineus ticks collected from 49 dogs in 2023 in Chachoengsao Province, Thailand. No evidence of these pathogens was found in ticks. These findings highlight the importance of exploring viral cross-reactivity. Furthermore, it is important to conduct additional studies to isolate SFTSV from animals and ticks in order to identify the potential transmission routes contributing to human and animal infections in Thailand.

The current pathogenicity and potential risk evaluation of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus to cause mysterious "Disease X"-An updated literature review.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a severe and potentially lethal illness. Tick bites of the Hyalomma genus are the primary source of transmission of CCHF to humans. The virus responsible for CCHF is the CCHF virus (CCHFV). It is a single-stranded negative sensed RNA virus. The virus belongs to the Orthonairoviridae genus within the Nairoviridae family. It occurs in an extensive geographical area spanning the Middle East, western China, southern Asia, southeastern Europe, and much of Africa. The current study aimed to evaluate the pathogenicity and potential risk of CCHFV to cause a public health emergency of international concern. We searched updated relevant information from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases using Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, tick-borne virus, and Nairovirus as keywords. The case fatality rate (CFR) varies by region. It can be more than 30% in some cases. Three segments in the genome of CCHFV (L, M, and S) are different in size and function. It is unknown whether the pathogenicity of CCHFV varied based on the genomic diversity. CCHFV can be transmitted through tick bites, handling of infected ticks, contact with infected humans, contaminated body fluids, and so on. A wide range of severity is associated with CCHF, ranging from a moderate fever with no apparent cause to increased vascular permeability, failure of several organs, bleeding, and shock. Hospitals with high-level isolation units should be the first choice for treating CCHF patients. Individual safety equipment is crucial in healthcare to prevent the spread of the virus. In the farm environment, using integrated pest management techniques, minimizing activity in tick-infested regions, and dressing appropriately in long sleeves and pants will help to reduce the risk of CCHFV infection via tick bites. There are no approved vaccinations or therapeutics for CCHF except supportive therapeutic approaches. Therefore, scientists recommend early ribavirin therapy for cases of high-risk exposures.