Public Health and Epidemiology: Open Access
Epidemiology, Transmission Dynamics, and Diagnostic Approaches of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus (CCHFV) in Animal Hosts: A One Health Perspective
Abstract
Kanza Fatima, Asmat Nawaz and Khadija Tariq
Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is a highly pathogenic, tick-borne zoonotic virus with a wide geographical distribution across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. The virus is primarily transmitted by ticks of the genus Hyalomma, which act as both vectors and reservoirs, maintaining the virus through transstadial and transovarial transmission. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, transmission dynamics, and diagnostic approaches of CCHFV in animal hosts within a One Health framework. Vertebrate hosts, including livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats, play a critical role in viral amplification by developing transient viremia without showing clinical symptoms, thereby facilitating virus transmission to feeding ticks. Wildlife species and migratory birds further contribute to the geographical spread and ecological maintenance of infected tick populations. The geographical distribution of CCHFV closely corresponds to the distribution of Hyalomma ticks, influenced by climatic conditions, ecological changes, and anthropogenic factors such as livestock movement and land use patterns. Diagnostic approaches, including serological assays (ELISA) and molecular techniques (RT-PCR), are essential for surveillance, although challenges persist due to short viremia and genetic diversity of the virus. Understanding the complex interactions among ticks, animal hosts, and environmental factors is crucial for predicting disease emergence and implementing effective control strategies. Integrated surveillance, improved diagnostic tools, and sustainable tick control measures are vital for reducing the risk of CCHFV transmission to humans. This review highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary One Health approach to better understand and manage this emerging zoonotic threat.