Foreign Office alert as highly infectious disease detected in Spain

13 June 2024 , 02:39

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Ministry of Health reported a confirmed case of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever in the Salamanca province (Image: Getty)

The Foreign Office has issued a warning about a disease detected in Spain and offered advice to travellers. The Castile and Leon Ministry of Health reported a confirmed case of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) in Salamanca province, Castile-Leon, north-western Spain.

Travel Health Pro, a website used by the Foreign Office for health advice, detailed the symptoms and provided guidance on risk avoidance. Early symptoms include fever, muscle aches, dizziness, headache, sore eyes, and light sensitivity.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and sore throat can follow, along with mood swings and confusion. Sleepiness, depression, and lethargy may also occur.

Additional clinical signs can include a rapid heart rate, swollen lymph nodes, a skin or mouth and throat rash, and kidney, liver or lung failure. Case fatality rates during outbreaks range from 5 to 40 percent.

According to the European Centre for Disease Control, since 2013, 13 cases have been reported from three provinces in Spain, 33 cases from Bulgaria and one from Greece, reports Wales Online.

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The CCHF virus is transmitted to humans by the Hyalomma tick or through direct contact with the blood, tissues, secretions or bodily fluids of infected animals and humans. Most cases occur in people living in tick-infested areas who have occupational exposure to livestock, such as farmers, slaughterhouse workers and vets.

The virus can also be contracted through contact with the blood or body contents of an infected tick, such as if a tick is crushed between the fingers. Health workers caring for infected individuals have reported cases.

Regrettably, there is currently no vaccine available for CCHF. The Foreign Office advises that the risk is very low for those travelling to Spain, provided they follow certain precautions.

These measures can help reduce the risk of infection:.

Upon returning.

If you or a family member start to feel unwell within 14 days of returning from a country where CCHF is a risk, exhibiting symptoms like high fever, muscle aches, dizziness, headaches, or sore eyes, it's crucial to seek medical advice. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about any recent travel.

Ben Hurst