Congo Virus Claims More Lives in Pakistan Amid Growing Health Concerns After Eid
Another life was lost to Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), commonly known as the Congo virus, in Karachi on Thursday, bringing the total number of deaths in Sindh to two this year, according to a statement from the District Health Officer (DHO) Malir.
The Congo virus is a severe viral disease that can cause hemorrhagic fever, with a fatality rate ranging between 10% and 40%, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). There is currently no vaccine available for the disease.
Young Butcher Dies After Contracting Congo Virus in Karachi
The latest victim, a 25-year-old fisherman named Zubair from Ibrahim Hyderi, reportedly contracted the virus after butchering sacrificial animals over Eidul Azha without taking proper precautions. He developed high fever, severe body aches, and other symptoms on June 13, five days after Eid.
Initially, he was treated at a local hospital and discharged. However, as his condition worsened, he visited Creek General Hospital, where he was denied admission due to a lack of beds. Eventually, Zubair was admitted to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), diagnosed as a suspected Congo virus case, and later referred to the Sindh Infectious Disease Hospital & Research Centre (SIDH), where he passed away on June 19. His test results confirmed Congo virus infection on June 18.
Health officials visited his residence and confirmed that his family members showed no symptoms. Authorities are currently identifying and monitoring people he came in contact with.
Sindh Reports First Congo Fever Death a Day Earlier
Just a day before Zubair’s death, a 42-year-old resident of District Malir passed away from CCHF at the Indus Hospital in Korangi. The patient tested positive for the virus on June 16 and died the following day, as confirmed by the Sindh Health Ministry.
The department has initiated an alert system across the province to monitor and respond to 35 infectious diseases, including CCHF. Daily case data is being collected to ensure timely action in case of outbreaks.
Congo Virus Kills Three in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) reported three more deaths linked to the Congo virus. Health Adviser Ehtesham Ali confirmed that two patients died on Wednesday night at Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC), while one had been brought in already deceased.
The deceased included Naik Shad from South Waziristan, and Aizaz, 28, and Shafiullah, 70, both from Karak. Officials believe the fatalities could have been prevented through timely intervention and better public awareness.
“Negligence during Eid celebrations led to these unfortunate deaths,” said Health Adviser Ehtesham Ali. “We urge the public to take precautionary measures seriously.”
The KP Health Department has activated the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response System (IDSRS) to track cases, trace contacts, and conduct disinfection procedures in affected areas.
Public Urged to Follow Safety Guidelines
Health authorities in both Sindh and KP are urging citizens to follow hygiene protocols when handling animals, particularly during and after religious festivals. The public is also advised to wear protective clothing, avoid contact with infected individuals, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as high fever, muscle pain, or bleeding appear.
The recent cases underscore the importance of raising awareness about Congo virus and taking preventive steps, especially during high-risk periods like Eidul Azha.
