Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, commonly called Congo virus, is a dangerous viral infection that spreads through tick bites or contact with the blood and tissues of infected animals.
Health experts have warned that the risk of infection may increase during ‘Eid-ul-Azha’ because many people handle sacrificial animals during the holiday. Doctors said people who buy, transport, care for, or sacrifice animals face a higher risk of catching the virus.
Experts advised citizens to spray animals with tick killing medicine before bringing them home. They also stressed the importance of keeping animal areas clean during Eid celebrations.
Medical professionals recommended wearing gloves, face masks, and protective clothes while handling animals or performing sacrifices.
People should avoid touching animal blood or waste with bare hands. Experts also advised families to safely dispose of animal waste to reduce the spread of infections.
Health specialists said washing hands with soap after touching animals or meat is very important. Clean surroundings and proper hygiene can help protect families and communities during Eid-ul-Azha.
Sindh reported its first death from Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever this year after a 17 year old cattle farm worker from Tando Adam died from the infection.
The teenager was first taken to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre with fever and bleeding symptoms. Doctors suspected Congo virus and kept him in an isolation ward before sending his samples for testing at Aga Khan University Hospital.
The test confirmed he had Congo virus, and he was later shifted to Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital and Research Centre, where he died.
Doctors warned that Congo virus symptoms may include high fever, body pain, weakness, nausea, and bleeding. Anyone showing these symptoms should seek medical help immediately.
Health authorities have already issued awareness messages in crowded cattle market areas. Experts believe that following simple precautions and hygiene rules can greatly reduce the risk of Congo virus infections during the Eid holidays.
According to the World Health Organization, Congo virus is a serious illness that can cause severe bleeding fever and has a high death rate. Doctors also said there is currently no vaccine available for humans or animals against the disease.
