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Jamal Ashraf

Congo virus

Congo virus has caused 19 deaths in Pakistan this year, with five deaths reported in Karachi, twelve in Quetta and two in Bahawalpur. As Eid-ul-Azha is near we should be aware of the symptoms and causes of this dreadful disease because it is transferred to humans from animals. The Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a rampant tick-borne viral disease. It is a zoonotic disease carried by many wild animals and domestic like sheep and cattle, with a mortality rate of 10–40%. Outbreaks of illness are usually attributable to Hyalomma tick bites or contact with infected animals.

Transmission

A Congo fever is spread by a virus which is transmitted from one animal to another and from animals to humans through a special kind of tick.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Congo Virus taken from http://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/

  • Flu
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Joint and muscle aches
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Loose motions
  • Agitation
  • Mental confusion and
  • Throat petechiae
  • Nosebleeds
  • Vomiting
  • Black stools
  • The liver becomes swollen and painful
  • Disseminated intravascular coagulation
  • Acute kidney failure and shock
  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome

Treatment

The antiviral drug ribavirin has been used to treat CCHF infection with apparent benefit. Both oral and intravenous formulations seem to be effective.

Precautions

  • People exposed to domestic animals or those undergoing activities like hiking should wear protective gear to avoid tick bites.
  • Eliminate ticks, use a spray on your animals and use a protective spray on your clothes and clothing.
  • Hospital staff should also take adequate precautions while treating patients with the disease.
  • Isolate patients who have the virus, maintain minimal or protected contact, wash you body and hands afterwards. Wear gloves and masks. The syringes and needles should be carefully disposed.
  • Ribavirin may be administered to people coming in close contact with patients.
  • Avoid areas where there are too many ticks.
  • Minimize insect bites, pests and rodents in the house or elsewhere.
  • Cook meat thoroughly.
  • Wear gloves and try not to eat ,drink around animals.
  • Infected animals show abnormal behavior and other symptoms so consult a vet as early as possible.
  • The virus is present in all fluids released by the host animals and patients so sanitation is very important.
  • Don’t share utensils.

If you have further questions about Congo virus, or you want advice on your symptoms form experts, please visit www.talkhealth.me.