Crimea-Congo can have a mortality rate of over 30 percent.

It is already present in more than 40 countries, mainly in Central Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

There are already reports that it is also found in Greece and Eastern Europe. 

- A number of years ago, we received reports that people also got Crimean Congo and died of the disease in Spain.

We know that the virus is on the rise, says virology professor Ali Mirazimi.

However, Ali Mirazimi believes that we should not be worried in the present.

But the virus is spreading more and more north in Europe.

- The tick still does not thrive so well here (in Sweden).

But we have seen that once the tick gets a foothold, then it only takes a few years before the virus has appeared.

We have seen that in Spain.

Climate change

The virus begins with flu-like symptoms, but then it shifts to bleeding symptoms and virtually all organs in the body begin to bleed under the skin. 

- It is even bloodier than Ebola, says Ali Mirazimi.

The ticks also spread the virus to other animals, which in turn can infect humans.

But it's not like covid-19, it must be via very close contact.

- There are special ticks that have been found where there are dry and long summers.

But now we see climate change and we get longer and drier summers and then the tick feels good.

Vaccine in progress

Knowledge about the virus is very small, according to Ali Mirazimi.

In order for knowledge to increase and for medicines and vaccines to be developed, special labs are required in Sweden.

- The virus has been around since the 1940s, but it has affected poorer countries.

So then the interest for companies to develop vaccines and medicines will be low, there has been no incentive unfortunately.

But now it is spreading more and more to the west.

- Sweden leads a large international study.

A phase 1 study will begin as early as next year.