The current Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) outbreak in Iraq has intensified during the 2026 transmission season, driven by increased livestock movements, seasonal agricultural activities, and heightened human-animal interaction in rural and peri-urban areas.
As of 15 June 2026, Iraq has reported 171 confirmed cases and 11 associated deaths, resulting in a case fatality rate (CFR) of 6.4 per cent. Cases have been recorded in 15 governorates, demonstrating the broad geographic spread of the disease and the continued public health significance of the outbreak.
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever 101
The highest burden of infection remains concentrated in southern and central Iraq, with Thi Qar governorate reporting 82 cases and 6 deaths, accounting for nearly half of all confirmed infections nationwide. Additional cases have been reported in Muthanna, Baghdad, Missan, Wasit, Babil, Diyala, Basrah, Ninawa, Salah Al-Din, Kirkuk, Kerbala, Najaf, Qadisiyah, and Anbar.
The current epidemiological pattern is consistent with previous years, when CCHF incidence typically increases during late spring and early summer due to favourable environmental conditions for tick activity, intensified livestock trading, and increased exposure to animals and animal products.
Antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance and the Revenge of the Microbes
The evolving epidemiological situation is further compounded by the approaching Ashura commemorations, one of the largest annual religious events in Iraq, expected to attract millions of pilgrims to Kerbala and other major religious centres across the country. Increased population movement, the establishment of temporary food preparation facilities, heightened demand for livestock products, and the potential rise in informal slaughtering practices may increase exposure to infected animals and contaminated materials.
These factors could elevate transmission risks in both affected and neighbouring governorates while placing additional pressure on public health and veterinary services during a period of already heightened disease activity. Given the continued rise in cases and the anticipated influx of pilgrims, strengthened preparedness, risk communication, community engagement, surveillance, and preventive measures are essential to reduce transmission and protect vulnerable populations