NIH Warns of Congo Virus, Heatstroke Amid Rising Temperatures
News Desk
Islamabad: As Eidul Azha approaches, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has raised alarms over two urgent public health threats: Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) and the escalating risks of heatstroke.
These advisories come as southern parts of the country grapple with soaring temperatures, raising concerns for both public health and safety.
The NIH has specifically called for heightened vigilance in the provinces of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and the Islamabad Capital Territory, urging provincial health departments to activate emergency protocols in line with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
A key focus of the advisory is the need to protect citizens during the annual animal slaughter associated with Eidul Azha, which often involves large crowds and widespread handling of livestock.
Congo Virus Threat on the Rise
CCHF, a viral hemorrhagic fever with a mortality rate between 10 to 40 percent, has been a recurring threat in Pakistan since the first case in 1976. With Balochistan being the most affected region, the NIH highlighted the increasing risk of transmission during Eidul Azha. The virus is primarily spread through direct contact with infected animal blood or tissues, commonly during slaughter. Human-to-human transmission is also possible, adding to the complexity of containing the disease.
As Eidul Azha is synonymous with mass animal sacrifice, the NIH is urging the public to take protective measures when handling animals. These include wearing gloves, protective clothing, and ensuring proper disposal of animal waste to prevent the virus’s spread.
Heatstroke Advisory
Alongside the Congo virus advisory, the NIH has issued a separate alert regarding the ongoing heatwave sweeping across Pakistan. The health body attributes this severe weather to global climate change, which has led to increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves in the country. With temperatures already soaring, health professionals are reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses, particularly heatstroke.
Heatstroke, a potentially fatal condition, is characterized by high body temperature, dry skin, weakness, confusion, and slurred speech. The NIH has stressed the importance of staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight, and seeking prompt medical attention for those exhibiting symptoms.
Given the severity of the heatwave, the NIH is also calling for the establishment of heatstroke response units in high-risk areas, including rural and remote regions. Additionally, local governments have been urged to ensure access to shaded areas and water sources in public spaces to mitigate the impact of extreme heat.
Community Action Required
As Pakistan faces these compounded challenges, the NIH is urging community-level interventions to ensure both preventive measures for CCHF and heatstroke response strategies are in place. Volunteers and health professionals will play a critical role in educating the public about personal safety precautions during Eidul Azha, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare may be limited.
This dual threat of infectious disease and extreme weather underscores the broader impact of climate change on public health, particularly during times of large gatherings and community events like Eidul Azha. The NIH’s advisories highlight the need for a coordinated response to safeguard the health of Pakistan’s citizens during this festive period.
