Erciyes University develops vaccine for Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever

Erciyes University in Kayseri, Turkey, is developing a vaccine to combat Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), a disease transmitted by ticks. The project is being led by Prof. Dr. Aykut Özdarendeli at the Vaccine Research and Development Institute.

As temperatures rise during the summer months, the threat of tick-borne infections increases. So far this year, 12 people in Turkey have died due to tick bites resulting in CCHF.

The vaccine is currently making significant progress, with the first phase of clinical trials nearing completion. Erciyes University Rector Prof. Dr. Fatih Altun stated that the project is showing "regular and stable progress" and expressed optimism that the second and third phases could be completed to bring the vaccine to readiness. The university is working in coordination with the Turkish Ministry of Health to address this recurring seasonal health issue.