ISLAMABAD: The National Institute of Health (NIH) has issued an urgent health advisory urging precautionary measures to curb the potential spread of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) ahead of Eid al-Adha.
In preparation for the Eid festivities—which involve large-scale animal slaughter—health departments across Pakistan, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, have been instructed to implement existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and launch public awareness campaigns on preventive safety practices.
CCHF is a viral hemorrhagic fever with a high fatality rate of 10% to 40%, transmitted primarily through contact with the blood or tissues of infected animals during slaughter. Human-to-human transmission is also possible, particularly through contact with bodily fluids in domestic or healthcare settings.
The advisory noted that Balochistan remains the most affected region, mainly due to increased cross-border movement of livestock. According to NIH records, 61 confirmed cases of CCHF were reported in Pakistan in 2024.
In light of the increased risk during Eid al-Adha, the NIH has strongly emphasized the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and protective clothing, during animal handling and slaughter. It also urged safe disposal of animal waste to prevent contamination and viral spread.
Authorities have been tasked with reinforcing health surveillance and response systems to manage any potential outbreak during the holiday period.
