Tusck Overland is committed to keeping every traveller informed, prepared, and safe on all cross-border adventures. As part of our duty of care, we would like to alert all members to the risk of Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)—commonly referred to as Congo fever—which has been reported in parts of Namibia in recent years.
While the disease remains rare, it is serious, and awareness is your strongest protection.
What Is Congo Fever?
Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever is a viral disease spread primarily through tick bites (especially Hyalomma ticks) and through contact with infected animal blood or tissue. It occurs naturally in arid and semi-arid regions—exactly the kind of terrain overlanders explore.
Where Is the Risk in Namibia?
Congo fever cases have historically occurred in:
Northern and central Namibia, including farming and cattle regions.
Areas with large wildlife and livestock populations.
Travel through rural zones—especially during the warmer months when ticks are most active—requires extra caution.
How Congo Fever Spreads
You cannot get the virus from casual contact with other travellers.
The primary risks are:
Tick bites, especially in grasslands and bushy terrain.
Handling slaughtered animals, raw meat, or hides.
Contact with infected blood (mostly a risk for farmers, abattoir workers, or medical personnel).
Symptoms Travellers Should Know
Symptoms typically appear 1–3 days after a tick bite and may include:
Sudden high fever
Muscle aches
Nausea or vomiting
Fatigue, headache, or dizziness
In severe cases, bleeding or bruising
If you or anyone on your convoy develops these symptoms after possible tick exposure, seek medical help immediately and mention possible Congo fever exposure.
How Tusck Overland Travellers Can Stay Safe
Here are the most effective precautions for overlanders:
1. Prevent Tick Bites
Apply DEET-based insect repellent to exposed skin.
Treat hiking clothing with permethrin where possible.
Wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed shoes when walking in bush or grass.
Check your body and clothing for ticks each evening.
Keep your campsite area clear of long grass.
2. Take Precautions Around Animals
Avoid handling raw meat, animal carcasses, or slaughter activities.
Hunters should use gloves and avoid contact with fresh blood.
Wash hands after handling camp food and do not handle raw meat with open cuts.
3. Follow Tusck Overland Protocol
Report any tick bites to your Club leader or WhatsApp support group.
If illness develops during a trip, isolate the traveller from close animal exposure and seek medical care.
What To Do If You Suspect Infection
Immediate action matters. If you experience fever or flu-like symptoms after a tick bite:
Stop travelling and rest in a safe area.
Contact local medical services (Namibia’s clinics are well briefed on CCHF).
Inform your Tusck Overland admin group so we can assist with logistics, routing, or emergency support.
Final Word from Tusck Overland
Congo fever is rare, but as overlanders, we often move through remote terrain where natural risks are part of the adventure. Staying informed, practising basic tick precautions, and acting quickly if symptoms appear will keep you safe.
Tusck Overland remains committed to your wellbeing on every trail, border crossing, and desert track.
Travel smart. Stay alert. Adventure responsibly.
Sources: The Namibia; World Health Organization; New Era Live; Big News Network
