As Pakistan gears up for Eid-ul-Adha, the Congo virus, also known as Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), has emerged as a significant concern. With just one week until the festival, reports of increasing Congo virus cases have put health officials on high alert across the country, particularly in Balochistan province.
Health authorities in Balochistan have reported a surge in Congo virus cases, with six individuals testing positive for the disease so far this year. The onset of Eid-ul-Adha has spurred a rush in the purchase of sacrificial animals, creating conditions ripe for the spread of the virus.
The Congo virus, transmitted through ticks and contact with infected animals, poses a grave threat to public health. Symptoms are severe and can prove fatal if not treated promptly, making early detection crucial. The Fatima Jinnah Chest Hospital in Quetta, Balochistan’s primary treatment center for Congo virus patients, has confirmed three men remain hospitalized in isolation, while three women have been discharged after successful treatment.
Among the newly diagnosed cases is Qudratullah, a 22-year-old dairy farmer from Killa Abdullah district. Qudratullah’s experience highlights the stealthy nature of the virus, with symptoms initially resembling common ailments such as fever and body pain. However, timely medical intervention has improved his condition significantly.
Last year, Balochistan witnessed 54 reported cases of the Congo virus, resulting in 18 fatalities, including medical professionals. Dr. Dawood Baloch of the Young Doctors Association underscored the urgent need for robust healthcare infrastructure to combat the virus effectively, lamenting the loss of lives due to inadequate facilities.
As Eid approaches, the government of Balochistan has initiated preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus. Intensive spray campaigns, blood bank support, and the allocation of funds for essential medical supplies demonstrate a concerted effort to safeguard public health during this critical period.
Meanwhile, concerns about the Congo virus extend beyond Balochistan, with previous cases reported in various parts of Pakhtunkhwa province. The nationwide response underscores the collective resolve to mitigate the risk posed by this infectious disease amidst the festive preparations for Eid-ul-Adha.
