BAGHDAD: Iraqi health officials reported Tuesday that at least 12 people have died from Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever since the beginning of the year, despite efforts to stop the illness from spreading.

“The total number of cases of haemorrhagic fever is 55, including 12 recorded deaths,”said Seif al-Badr, a spokesman for the health ministry.

According to the World Health Organization, the tick-borne disease, also known as Congo fever, produces severe haemorrhaging and is spread via contact with the blood of afflicted animals.

The disease kills between 10% and 40% of people who contract it.

29 cases and six deaths have been reported in the southern province of Dhi Qar, which is known for its cattle and other livestock farming.

On Friday, the northern province of Kirkuk reported the first death from the sickness.

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