ISLAMABAD Although there has been one incidence of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the National Institute of Health (NIH) released recommendations on Wednesday regarding the prevention and treatment of typhoid fever, heatstroke, sunstroke, and CCHF.
The goal of the many warnings that the NIH’s Center for Disease Control (CDC) has released is to increase the degree of preparation in the prevention and control of CCHF, heatstroke, sunstroke, and typhoid fever by raising awareness among the appropriate authorities.
According to the CDC, 101 cases of CCHF were recorded nationwide in 2018. Given the significant risk of disease transmission resulting from the anticipated increase in human-animal interaction during the forthcoming Eid-ul-Azha, it is critical to be watchful and take action to stop the spread of CCHF.
It clarified that the Nairovirus carried by ticks is the cause of CCHF. This virus, which can infect humans through tick bites or contact with infected blood or tissues during and right after slaughter, is carried by animals like cattle, goats, sheep, and hares. It further stated that contact with contaminated blood, saliva, or bodily fluids can spread the infection from one sick individual to another.
Due to global warming, Pakistan is witnessing significant climate changes, including regular heatwaves, according to the advise for the prevention of heatstroke and sunstroke cases. It noted that each year, heatwaves are more likely to occur and have a greater impact, which could lead to an increase in heat stroke-related morbidity and mortality.
People were encouraged to take quick action, including consuming more water, avoiding direct sunlight, eating salty foods, wearing hats, and dressing in loose, light-colored clothing. Rehydration is said to be able to avert heatstroke consequences.
Pakistan is reportedly one of the nations with the greatest typhoid fever burdens, according to the CDC. The nation is highly vulnerable to a rise in the burden of disease due to inadequate immunization coverage, inadequate hygiene standards, and limited access to safe drinking water.
