Punjab Health Department issues instructions to prevent from Congo Virus

Lahore: Punjab Health Department has issued necessary instructions to prevent and control Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic (CCHF) Fever cases on the occasion of forthcoming Eid ul Azha when a large scale movement of sacrificial animals is taking place in the province. CCHF is viral disease of human beings transmitted by “Ticks” found on the skin of animals like sheep, Goats, Cattle 7 Camels which can spread to the medical professionals, traders of animals and buyers. With a view to forestall the suspected outbreak of CCHF, there is a need to take immediate precautionary measures to check the spread of ticks and CCHF.

A spokesman of Health Department has said that special measures like limestone marking, spray, treatment of affected animals etc should be initiated at cattle markets, slaughter houses, dairy/gawala colonies, sacrificial animals sale yards and other animal gathering places.

The spokesman further said that recommended tick repellent spray should be carried out in and around the designated sale points/cattle markets. The services of the District Livestock officers and veterinary staff in the districts should be fully utilized for avoiding spread of this disease. Public health experts advised the butchers, animal handlers to take precautionary measures while disposing off the blood and other secretions of the animals to avoid direct contact with it.

The spokesman said that all the Principals of Autonomous medical institutions, All medical superintendents of government hospitals and EDOs health have been asked to take necessary steps for the protection of medical professionals during the treatment of such patients. They have been further asked to maintain sufficient stock of medicines used in the treatment of Congo fever patients and only designated medical paramedical staff and attendants be allowed to handle the patient.