Clinico-hematological features and outcome of patients affected by Congo–Crimean hemorrhagic fever: An experience from a single center

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Congo–Crimean hemorrhagic fever is a tick-borne zoonotic viral disease caused by Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV). The outbreak in Pakistan is increased during Eid-ul-Adha. We describe a cluster of cases that presented to our hospital. AIMS: The aim of this study was to determine the outcome of Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever-positive cases from January 2011 to August 2019. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective data were retrieved using the International Classification of Diseases version 9. We received 2101 samples for testing. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-positive cases were included in the study. History of bleeding and animal contact was recorded. Variables analyzed were age, gender, profession, and coinfection with other viral illnesses. RESULTS: A total of 70 PCR-positive cases were included in the study (frequency 3.3%). Sixty-one were males and nine were females. Fever was present in all cases. Epistaxis was noted in 54% of patients. Thrombocytopenia was present in all patients. Eighteen patients were butchers, six were shopkeepers, nine students, and few laborers. All females were housewives. Twenty-two patients had a history of contact with animals. Seven patients were coinfected with viral hepatitis. There were 23 (33%) deaths. CONCLUSION: Overall mortality was 33%. Twenty-two patients had a history of contact with animals. There is a strong need for public education, especially during the month of Eid-ul-Adha.