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[HEALTH] · Germany, Kosovo · 5 sources

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Germany and Kosovo partner to combat deadly Hyalomma ticks

Scientists from Germany and Kosovo are collaborating to combat the spread of Hyalomma ticks and the deadly Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever. While Germany provides high-security laboratory facilities, Kosovo offers critical field experience with the ticks and the disease.

Hyalomma ticks, often called 'big hunting ticks,' are known for their ability to detect prey from up to 200 meters away. Historically found in Africa, Asia, and Southern Europe, climate change is enabling the species to migrate further north, with sightings reported in Germany and Eastern Europe. These ticks act as vectors for the Crimean-Congo virus, a highly pathogenic disease with mortality rates comparable to Ebola or Marburg. The virus can cause severe internal bleeding and death by destroying blood and lymphatic vessels.

Researcher Kurtesh Sherifi, who began his interest in zoonotic pathogens while studying in Berlin, is working to bridge the gap in research capabilities. Due to limited budgets, Kosovo lacks the high-security laboratories required to investigate the virus, leading to partnerships with German institutions such as the Bernhard Nocht Institute.

Entities

Bernhard Nocht Institute · Germany · Kosovo · Kurtesh Sherifi · University of Prishtina

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