Alarming update on incidence of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in Iraq in 2023

Abstract

In 2021, large outbreak of Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) was reported in Iraq and cases have increased without any significant control measures. To raise awareness about the increasing cases in different regions of Iraq, hence remind the necessity to tackle contributing factors and potential outbreak interventions. The study included 511 PCR-confirmed CCHF infection cases out of 1827 suspected cases from 18 Provinces from January to August 2023. Approval from the Ministry of Health for data analysed. Out of 1827 suspected cases, 511 confirmed positive by PCR. Total case fatality rate (CFR) was 12.7 with varying severity levels among provinces. Erbil highest CFR, 38.5, while Sulaimaniya and Anbar report no deaths. Independent t-test showed a significant difference in CFR between provinces west and south of Baghdad compared to north (p < 0.05). Trend showed significant surges after Iftar and Adha holidays. Differences in CFR among provinces around the religious ceremonies, highlight need for one public health intervention strategy. Increased temperatures affected vector behaviour. Uncontrolled animal movement with neighbouring countries is an important factor. Virus or host determinants can shape the clinical case outcomes, which need clinical and extensive laboratory studies to unravel the reasons leading to death.