Sindh has reported its first Congo Virus death in 2025. On June 17, a 42-year-old man from District Malir, Karachi, died only a day after entering Indus Hospital in Korangi. Before his admission, he had tested positive for the disease.
An official with the provincial health department said the patient had no recent travel history. This raised anxiety about local viral transmission. The Congo Virus mostly spreads by tick bites or direct exposure to the blood and tissues of infected animals.
During and after the killing of animals, the danger is greatest; it rises around Eid al-Adha. The National Institute of Health (NIH) had issued a public advisory in April, encouraging people to take preventative measures before Eid’s arrival.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Congo virus has a case fatality rate ranging from 10 to 40%. WHO also confirms there is no vaccine available for it yet. Early detection and prevention get therefore even more vital as a result.
The health department has withheld further information about any other possible cases. Still, the sudden death without travel connections suggests local virus circulation. This underlines the need of awareness and monitoring.
Hospitals and local authorities are predicted to step up monitoring in areas of high risk. Movement of sacrificial animals could spread the disease more if safety procedures are neglected. Proper hygiene is required of those interacting with cattle.
Experts caution of a likely increase in Congo virus cases after Eid. Authorities will probably improve public communication and disease monitoring. Any flu-like symptoms in livestock handlers must be reported immediately.
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