KARACHI: Ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, fears of the Congo virus have resurfaced in Sindh after a 17-year-old youth from Tando Muhammad Khan was moved to Karachi with suspected symptoms of the disease.
According to government hospital sources, the patient, identified as Muhammad Asif, was brought to the city two days ago suffering from high fever and internal bleeding. Following initial medical aid, he was transferred to the Infectious Diseases Hospital for specialized care. Samples have been sent to the Aga Khan University Hospital laboratory to confirm the presence of the virus.
Hospital officials noted that the teenager works in livestock care in Tando Muhammad Khan, a factor that significantly increases the likelihood of infection.
Medical experts emphasized that while this remains a suspected case, a final confirmation will only be possible after the laboratory results are released. If confirmed, this would mark the first recorded case of the Congo virus in Sindh this year.
Health Experts Issue Advisory
Health professionals explain that Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is primarily transmitted to humans through ticks found on cattle. With the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha festival, they stressed that taking precautionary measures is vital.
Citizens and livestock handlers are advised to:
Wear gloves and protective clothing while handling animals.
Avoid direct contact with animal blood or bodily fluids.
Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital if symptoms like sudden fever or bleeding occur.
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