Pakistan issues Congo fever advisory ahead of Eid over rising infection risk

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s National Institute of Health (NIH) has issued an advisory warning of an increased risk of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) ahead of Eid al-Adha, urging authorities and the public to take precautionary measures.

The NIH said the viral disease, which can be fatal, spreads through tick bites, contact with infected animal blood, or transmission from an infected person to others.

Health institutions across the country have been directed to remain on high alert and strengthen preventive measures to contain potential outbreaks, particularly during the religious festival when movement of sacrificial animals increases.

Pakistan reported its first case of Congo fever in 1976, with the highest number of infections recorded in Balochistan, while cases have also been reported in Punjab, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to NIH data, 61 cases were reported in 2024 with a fatality rate of around 15 per cent. In 2025, cases rose to 82 with 20 deaths. By March 2026, four cases had already been confirmed nationwide.

The NIH warned that increased animal movement during Eid al-Adha could heighten the risk of transmission.

The NIH advised the public to adopt precautionary measures, including wearing light-coloured clothing to easily detect ticks, avoiding tick-infested areas, and removing ticks promptly.

People handling sacrificial animals have been urged to use gloves, avoid direct contact with blood, and ensure safe disposal of animal waste.

The Ministry of Health reiterated the need for public awareness and preventive practices to limit the spread of the disease.