Pakistan: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever outbreak in Multan

Event

Pakistani health officials have confirmed at least three fatal cases of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in the Multan district of Punjab province as of Sunday, May 6. According to local sources, another five suspected cases are currently under investigation.

Context

CCHF is a tick-borne virus (Nairovirus) of the Bunyaviridae family. It has a fatality rate of 10 to 40 percent and is usually transmitted to people from ticks and infected livestock animals. Human-to-human transmission is also possible, and primarily occurs via close contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of an infected person. Symptoms include headache, high fever, back pain, joint pain, stomach pain, and vomiting. Red eyes, a flushed face, a red throat, and petechiae (red spots) on the palate are common. There is no vaccine available.

Advice

Individuals in Pakistan are advised to take measures against ticks (e.g. by wearing covering clothing and using insect repellent). Avoid close contact with livestock animals or with infected individuals.