Gujarat has reported its first case of the potentially deadly Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in 2026. The patient is a 26-year-old man from Pindarda village in Gandhinagar district, health officials confirmed.
Patient Details and Current Status
The young man has been receiving medical care at KD Hospital in Ahmedabad for the last four days. His diagnosis was confirmed after fluid samples were sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for testing. Dr. AJ Vaishnav, the Chief District Health Officer (CDHO) of Gandhinagar, provided this critical update.
Understanding Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever
CCHF is a severe viral disease caused by a pathogen from the nairovirus genus. The primary transmission occurs through hyalomma ticks that spread the virus from infected animals to humans. It is crucial to note that the disease can also spread through contact with the bodily fluids of infected humans.
The illness presents with symptoms like high fever, intense muscle pain, and bleeding. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), CCHF carries a high fatality rate, estimated to be between 10% and 40%.
Location and Broader Health Context
The case originated from Pindarda village, situated approximately 17 km north-east of Gandhinagar, along the Sabarmati river. This health alert comes at a time when certain areas of the state capital are also witnessing a surge in typhoid cases, putting additional focus on public health measures in the region.
Health authorities are likely monitoring the situation closely to prevent any further spread of the contagious fever. Public awareness about avoiding tick bites and contact with livestock, along with early symptom recognition, remains vital in managing such outbreaks.
