Battling the wave of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in South Asia: Integrated policy recommendations for preempting a regional epidemic

Abstract

Background: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) has been responsible for severe viral hemorrhagic fever outbreaks in South Asia over the past couple of decades, carrying a case fatality rate of 10-40%. The objective of this study is to analyze recurrent CCHFV outbreaks in South Asia and propose integrated policy recommendations to prevent regional epidemic spread.

Methodology: Epidemiological analysis of CCHFV transmission patterns using a One Health framework, examining synergistic risk factors including livestock vaccination gaps, biosecurity deficiencies, and surveillance system fragmentation across South Asian hotspots.

Results: CCHFV maintains persistent transmission through infected Hyalomma ticks and direct contact with viremic livestock/human fluids, with case fatality rates of 10-40% depending on healthcare access. Climatic conditions including prolonged monsoons, elevated temperatures, and high humidity favor tick proliferation. Systemic limitations in national health systems prevent standardized prevention protocol implementation, particularly in rural areas.

Conclusion: Authors propose several integrated policy recommendations including community-led tick control initiatives, enhanced livestock vaccination programs, optimizing infection control and biosafety protocols, and strengthened vector surveillance systems to address multifactorial transmission challenges and prevent transnational spread through migratory routes and climate-driven vector expansion.

Keywords: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, CCHFV, Epidemic, Healthcare management, South Asia