Balochistan has declared a red alert as cases of Congo virus fever continue to rise, claiming 16 lives in the province. A total of 16 positive cases have been reported, prompting the transfer of nine patients to Karachi for treatment. The Young Doctors Association (YDA) expressed concern over the government’s handling of the situation and emphasized the need for immediate and serious measures to curb the spread of the virus.
Caretaker Chief Minister Mir Ali Mardan Domki issued directives to the health and livestock departments to take immediate steps in addressing the alarming situation. The chief minister called for public awareness about the virus and instructed the implementation of anti-viral spray at livestock farms.
The recent variant of the Congo virus has raised concerns due to its potentially deadly impact. A doctor diagnosed with the virus recently passed away while being transferred to Karachi for medical treatment. The total number of Congo virus cases brought to Fatima Jinnah Hospital in Quetta this year is 41, with 16 reported deaths.
Congo virus is primarily transmitted to humans by ticks on cattle and other livestock, causing severe symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, vomiting, and internal bleeding. Given the high fatality rate and the absence of a specific vaccine or treatment, public awareness and preventive measures are crucial to controlling the spread of the virus.
