To take care of yourself and your loved ones during Eid, it is essential to follow the precautionary measures advised by experts.
Islamabad: The danger of Congo virus spread starts in Pakistan every year before Eid Ul Adha. The Congo virus is a tick-borne disease that spreads through bites from infected ticks. The virus is usually found in ticks or fleas on animals. It is likely to be transmitted to people who directly care for the animals. Factors supporting its spread include hot, humid climates, limited pesticide use, poor animal control, inadequate irrigation during monsoons, and vector control deficiencies. Symptoms of Congo virus include fever, muscle ache, neck pain and stiffness, backache, headache, sore eyes, and photophobia (sensitivity to light). There may also be nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sore throat. Additionally, bleeding from different parts of the body is also among the symptoms of the virus.
According to the current year’s statistics, Pakistan has reported hundreds of Congo virus patients, with a total of 6 deaths occurring in 2023. Recently, there have been three cases of Congo virus in the country, out of which two have died. All three patients belong to Punjab; two were diagnosed in Rawalpindi, while one case was reported in Peshawar.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) has issued an advisory to citizens and concerned authorities in view of the fear of further spread of the virus after these cases and deaths. The advisory recommends that citizens exercise caution while purchasing animals and that traders in livestock markets follow precautionary measures to avoid the Congo virus.
Health experts advise using gloves and masks when handling animals. The government should ensure that animals are bought and sold only in livestock markets established under its supervision, where imported animals are regularly tested. People who come into contact with animals should wear light clothing so that they can easily see if a tick attaches to their clothes.
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According to Dr. Mubashir Daha, the risk of Congo virus spread is highest from wild and domestic animals. As Eid Ul Adha approaches and Muslims rush to cattle markets for sacrificial animals, the risk of Congo virus increases. The virus spreads directly from animals to humans and can also spread through the meat and blood of slaughtered animals. He advises that wearing masks, gloves, and protective equipment can protect against the virus. Children should be kept away from cattle markets. Dr. Daha suggests that people wash their hands with soap after visiting cattle markets. He also advises avoiding animals with visible ticks. If any symptoms are found, people should maintain distance and follow SOPs.
Dr. Mubashir Daha also advised animal sellers to keep animals with ticks separate from other animals and to treat ill animals separately while wearing masks and washing hands. The only solution to prevent Congo virus is to avoid infected animals and follow SOPs. The virus can be defeated if SOPs are followed while purchasing animals for Eid al-Adha. Experts suggest that children should not be taken to the cattle market.
To take care of yourself and your loved ones during Eid, it is essential to follow the precautionary measures advised by experts.
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