Understanding the Dynamics and Enhancing Preparedness for Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever Virus in Portugal: Application of the Stockholm Paradigm and DAMA Protocol

Emerging and re-emerging zoonotic viruses transmitted by arthropods such as ticks, biting midges, and mosquitoes pose increasing public health concerns in Europe. Among these, Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) stands out due to its high case fatality and expanding geographic range. In Portugal, growing ecological and climatic shifts, along with human and animal migration, create favourable conditions for the virus emergence. This narrative review synthesises current knowledge on CCHFV in Portugal, exploring the relevance of applying the Stockholm paradigm and the DAMA (Document, Assess, Monitor, Act) protocol as proactive tools for preparedness and mitigation. The integration of interdisciplinary approaches and early warning systems is crucial for strengthening One Health preparedness and ensuring timely action against CCHFV and other emerging vector-borne diseases in response to changing environmental conditions. Strengthening integrated surveillance, diagnostic capacity, and cross-sectoral collaboration, supported by sustained funding and targeted public awareness, is essential to improve Portugal’s preparedness for CCHFV. However, current surveillance limitations highlight the need for larger and more representative sampling efforts to improve risk assessment, identify priority areas for targeted surveillance and intervention, and inform evidence-based prevention and control strategies within a One Health framework.