Balochistan is dealing with an outbreak of a virus called Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever, also known as the Congo virus. Sadly, 20 people, including a doctor, have died from it this year. Out of 200 suspected cases, 73 tested positive for the virus, which is spread by ticks. Twelve healthcare workers are getting treatment in Karachi, and four doctors are in serious condition. Thankfully, no cases have been reported in Karachi yet. But the quick spread of the infection among healthcare workers in Balochistan is worrying. This raises concerns about how well they’re protecting themselves and if they have enough gear. It’s crucial to address these issues fast to keep those risking their lives to help others safe. Plus, authorities need to work together with Sindh to set up quick and safe transfers of patients using air ambulances.
Because Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) can be really serious, with up to 40% of cases ending in fatalities, it’s super important to create a vaccine to stop it from spreading. But until then, the best we can do is make sure everyone knows about it and takes steps to prevent it. People in the livestock industry, who work with animals, need to know the risks and wear protective gear. They should use special stuff to keep ticks away and check themselves for ticks regularly. To stop it from spreading between people, it’s important to avoid close contact with someone who has it, wash hands a lot, and use protective gear in places like hospitals.
The government needs to do things fast to control the virus, keep healthcare workers safe, and protect the public. They’ve already done some things, like stopping private slaughterhouses in busy areas for a bit. Time is really important here, and the lives of healthcare workers and everyone else are at risk.
A warning went out to both small and big hospitals in Sindh, telling them to be careful about the Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever right away.
In sad news, Dr. Shukarullah was diagnosed with the Congo virus three days ago and passed away in a Karachi hospital. He used to work at Quetta Civil Hospital and was one of eight hospital staff, including five doctors, who got the virus.
A spokesperson from Aga Khan Hospital shared that the Congo virus patients were moved to the intensive care unit, and all the staff there were told to be extra careful.
On October 17, a new case of the Congo virus popped up in Quetta, making it 42 cases for the year. A 35-year-old woman at Fatima Jinnah Hospital had it. The Balochistan Health Department sent samples to the National Institute of Health.
On Sunday, the Sindh Health Department said no one in Karachi got Congo fever, but they’re getting ready, just in case, by setting up a Congo control cell.
It’s unusual to have cases of the Congo virus in Quetta when it’s not the usual time for it. Normally, this virus shows up during Eidul Azha because of tick bites on animal skin.
The health department is telling both healthcare workers and the public to be careful and take steps to avoid the Congo virus. They want suspected or confirmed cases to be isolated right away. The health department is also saying that everyone taking care of these cases, like healthcare workers, should have the right gear—like gowns, gloves, masks, and eye protection.
Every hospital in the province is being told to follow strict rules to control infections. This includes disinfecting and sterilizing things and being careful with blood and body fluids. They’re also setting up plans for cleaning, a system to isolate and prioritize patients, and keeping an eye on people who’ve been in contact with suspected cases.
They’re asking for one person to be in charge of reporting and sharing details about suspected or confirmed cases.
