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Zhambyl Region has recorded its first fatality this year due to a tick bite، with a man succumbing to Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF). The incident underscores the persistent threat of tick-borne illnesses in the region.

The deceased، who managed a livestock farm in the Shu district، reportedly did not seek immediate medical attention after the bite. This delay in treatment can be critical for CCHF، a severe viral hemorrhagic fever.

Understanding the Risk: Ticks and Livestock

Experts emphasize that animals، particularly sheep، are common carriers of ticks. A single sheep can host over 100 ticks، increasing the potential for disease transmission to humans. Local residents describe ticks being prevalent in arid areas، attaching to animals in soft spots like the chests of newborn lambs، leading to skin abrasions and potential infection pathways.

Identifying Hotspots and Infected Ticks

Natural foci for ticks carrying CCHF have been identified in six districts of the Zhambyl Region and the city of Taraz. During research، approximately 27،000 ticks were collected، and the dangerous virus was detected in 150 out of 2،500 samples. Consequently، active treatment is underway in 42 of the region's 350 settlements.

Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Help

Epidemiologists warn that after an ixodid tick bite، an incubation period of up to 14 days begins. Individuals might not notice the bite، and early symptoms can be mistaken for flu or ARVI، such as a fever. However، any such sign should prompt a medical consultation.

Expert Advice on Treatment

Nelli Mulikova، Deputy Head of the Sanitary-Epidemiological Control Department for the Zhambyl Region، stressed the importance of immediate treatment upon symptom onset. "There is no specific vaccination against CCHF. Only first aid، timely diagnosis، and treatment are important، as this is a very dangerous infection with rapidly developing symptoms،" she stated.

Despite the risks، health officials note that most ticks in the region are harmless. This year، out of approximately 300 reported tick bites، only one case of a dangerous infection was confirmed، tragically discovered only after the individual's death.

This information was reported by the news agency Infohub.kz.