WEB DESK: The detection of a lone case of Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Peshawar, Pakistan, has sparked apprehension among local health authorities ahead of the upcoming Eid festival. The confirmation of a case of “Congo Fever” by the Khyber Medical University prompted the provincial health department to call for precautionary measures at all animal markets.
Local authorities have been instructed to shut down any animal markets found to be non-compliant with directives regarding protective measures, as reported by the Dawn newspaper. These measures were implemented following the diagnosis of a “butcher” testing positive for CCHF and undergoing treatment at Khyber Teaching Hospital. This development is particularly alarming considering that four individuals died from the disease last year after contracting the virus at an animal market.
Understanding congo fever
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a widespread disease caused by a tick-borne virus (Nairovirus) belonging to the Bunyaviridae family, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). The CCHF virus triggers severe viral haemorrhagic fever outbreaks, with a mortality rate ranging from 10 per cent to 40 per cent. CCHF is endemic in various regions, including Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East, and Asian countries south of the 50th parallel north – the geographical boundary of the principal tick vector. The virus circulates among a wide range of wild and domestic animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats.
Transmission & symptoms
Transmission of the CCHF virus to humans occurs through tick bites or contact with infected animal blood or tissues during and immediately after slaughter. Most cases have been observed among individuals involved in the livestock industry, including agricultural workers, slaughterhouse employees, and veterinarians.
Human-to-human transmission can also occur through close contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons, leading to hospital-acquired infections. The incubation period varies depending on the mode of transmission, typically ranging from one to six days. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, dizziness, abdominal pain, and bleeding into the skin and internal organs.
Mortality rate & prevention
The mortality rate of CCHF is approximately 30 per cent, often resulting from liver or kidney failure in severe cases. Preventing and controlling CCHF infection in animals and ticks is challenging due to the unnoticed tick-animal-tick cycle and the widespread distribution of tick vectors. Tick control with acaricides is only feasible in well-managed livestock facilities.
The detection of CCHF in Peshawar underscores the importance of vigilance and preventive measures, especially during gatherings like Eid. Authorities must enforce strict protocols to safeguard public health and prevent further transmission of the disease.
