Ahead of Eidul Azha, the National Institute of Health has issued a nationwide health advisory, directing medical institutions to take immediate and effective measures to prevent the spread of Congo fever (CCHF) during the festive season.
According to the advisory, increased vigilance is necessary during Eidul-Azha due to the heightened risk of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF). Authorities have stressed the importance of taking precautionary steps to prevent the transmission of the disease.
The advisory states that Congo fever is caused by a virus carried by ticks commonly found in the hair and skin of animals such as goats, sheep, and cattle. The virus can be transmitted to humans through tick bites or through direct contact with the blood and tissues of infected animals during or immediately after slaughtering.
Health officials also warned that the virus can spread from one infected person to another through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.
The first case of Congo fever in Pakistan was reported in 1976. Since then, the highest number of cases has been recorded in Balochistan, although infections have also been reported in Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
During 2024, a total of 61 confirmed CCHF cases were reported across Pakistan, with a mortality rate of 15 per cent. In 2025, the number of cases increased significantly to 82, resulting in 20 deaths. As of March 2026, four cases have already been reported.
The advisory noted that the movement of sacrificial animals across provinces increases significantly during Eidul Azha, while public interaction with animals also rises sharply, increasing the risk of Congo fever transmission. Therefore, citizens have been urged to adopt preventive measures to protect themselves and their families.
Precautionary Measures
• Wear light-colored clothing so ticks can be spotted easily.
• Carefully remove ticks from clothing or skin if found.
• Avoid areas where ticks are commonly present.
• Use gloves while slaughtering animals and handling meat.
• Avoid direct contact with animal blood and tissues.
• Properly dispose of blood, waste, and animal remains after slaughtering.
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