2023-07-23 06:00:00
Rising temperatures are creating the perfect conditions for ticks carrying the FHCC virus to thrive in Europe, according to a new study led by virologist Ali Mirazimi from the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden. The longer and drier summers caused by climate change are attracting these disease-carrying ticks to migrate to more temperate areas, including Europe.
FHCC, also known as CCHF, is a highly dangerous disease listed as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to its potential to cause outbreaks and pandemics. The disease is characterized by symptoms such as headache, high fever, joint pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, jaundice, and mood swings. It is called “hemorrhagic” because it causes serious consequences for patients, including bruising, nosebleeds, and skin bleeding.
The FHCC virus is primarily spread by ticks from the Ixodidae family, specifically the Hyalomma ticks, which transmit the disease to humans and other animals through biting and sucking. Furthermore, the virus can also be transmitted through infected body fluids, such as blood.
The global spread of FHCC is becoming a concerning issue, with cases already reported in Spain, and other European countries likely to face the same problem soon. However, it should be noted that the disease is already endemic in several countries in Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe, where temperatures are generally warmer than in Europe.
While there is no specific treatment for FHCC, the antiviral drug ribavirin has been used as a therapeutic option, although its effectiveness is still controversial. Medical care for patients focuses on maintaining hydration, monitoring and correcting electrolytes, administering oxygen, and providing blood transfusions if necessary. Precautions are also required to prevent possible secondary bacterial infections.
The accelerated spread of FHCC in Europe serves as a wake-up call for urgent action on climate change. Political and economic leaders are urged to take effective measures to curb environmental pollution and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The increasing temperatures and disease spread pose significant threats to public health, and unless action is taken, European countries will be at an increasing risk of outbreaks and a possible FHCC pandemic.
It is crucial to prioritize climate action to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures and protect global health.]
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