Epidemiology and Outcomes of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Afghanistan: A Review of 2010–2019

Background: The study investigates the recent surge in Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) cases in Afghanistan, a high-risk viral disease transmitted through tick bites and livestock, and aims to identify patterns of the increase and offer prevention strategies. Methods: A systematic review of all scholarly articles published on CCHF in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2019 was conducted using a comprehensive and rigorous search strategy using the PubMed database. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Results: During the study period, 1537 suspected cases of CCHF were reported in Afghanistan, with the highest number and deaths in the western region. The majority of cases were male, aged 16-84, and involved in animal husbandry, agriculture, and healthcare workers, with a 2:1 male-to-female ratio. The majority of cases were aged 16-84. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for effective measures to prevent CCHF transmission in Afghanistan, such as education, improved animal management, and infection control in hospitals and laboratories, to reduce outbreak risks and enhance public health.