Detecting spatial clusters of Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever in Iraq in 2023

There is evidence of CCHF clustering in 40 districts in six governorates in south and mid-east Iraq. Additionally, there is evidence of low-incidence clustering of CCHF in 17 governorates, in north and central Iraq, and a risk for future outbreaks. Identifying clusters allows for focused preventive activities, such as insecticide spraying to reduce the tick population, controlling the spread of ticks by treating animals with repellents and other chemicals, and modifying landscapes. Distributing educational materials about handling meat and livestock products and engaging the community can help reduce exposure to ticks and the spread of disease.