Karachi, Sindh — Health authorities in Sindh are on high alert after a 17-year-old youth from Tando Muhammad Khan tested positive for the Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), commonly known as the Congo virus. The case comes just weeks before Eid‑ul‑Adha, raising concerns over a potential spike in infections due to increased human-animal contact during the festival.
The patient, who reportedly works as an animal caretaker, was admitted to Jinnah Hospital, Karachi, after presenting with high fever and internal bleeding. A private laboratory confirmed the infection, prompting health officials to issue urgent warnings to the public and livestock handlers.
“People dealing with animals, especially during Eid preparations, need to take extra precautions,” said a spokesperson from Sindh’s Health Department. “This virus is transmitted through ticks or direct contact with infected animal blood, and early detection is crucial.”
The Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever virus is primarily transmitted through ticks or by handling blood and tissues of infected livestock. While animals can carry the virus without showing symptoms, human-to-human transmission is also possible in healthcare settings if proper safety measures are not observed. There is currently no widely approved vaccine, making preventive steps critical.
Authorities are urging livestock handlers to wear protective clothing, use tick repellents, and avoid direct contact with animal blood. They also recommend careful inspection of animals and adherence to safe slaughtering practices during Eid to reduce the risk of infection.
The timing of this case has amplified concerns, as CCHF outbreaks in Sindh historically peak around Eid, when the movement of livestock and human exposure to animals increases. Past years have recorded multiple deaths linked to the virus during this period, prompting health officials to stress vigilance.
“This is a reminder that diseases like CCHF can resurface quickly during high-risk seasons,” a health expert said. “Simple precautions can prevent a serious public health crisis.”
With Eid approaching, authorities are working to spread awareness, distribute safety guidelines, and monitor suspected cases closely to prevent further spread in communities and hospitals.
