Health authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have issued a province-wide advisory to prevent the spread of the Congo virus. The warning comes amid rising concerns over Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever cases.
Hospitals in Peshawar and other districts have been placed on high alert. Officials have also issued special instructions ahead of Eid al-Adha. Increased animal handling during the festival is seen as a risk factor.
Authorities have described the Congo virus as a highly dangerous and infectious disease. They have instructed all District Health Officers and hospitals to strictly follow safety protocols.
Medical Teaching Institutions and district hospitals must fully implement the guidelines. Health officials stressed that compliance is necessary to control possible outbreaks of the Congo virus.
Hospitals have been told to immediately report suspected cases. They must send patient samples to public health laboratories. Each case must include a completed investigation form.
Doctors and medical staff have been advised to stay alert. They must use personal protective equipment at all times. Proper infection control procedures are mandatory.
The advisory also highlights safe sample handling. All samples from suspected Congo virus patients must be transported using triple packaging. The cold chain must be maintained during transport.
Health authorities have also stressed preventive measures in livestock. Tick control has been identified as a key step in reducing transmission risks. Animals are considered a major source of infection spread.
Diagnostic testing has been approved through PCR and ELISA methods. These tests will help confirm suspected Congo virus cases quickly and accurately.
Medical staff have been instructed to collect blood samples with extreme caution. They must follow strict safety protocols to avoid exposure.
Officials also urged hospitals to stay in close contact with the virology department of the National Institute of Health. This coordination is important for timely guidance and response.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. The advisory aims to reduce the risk of outbreak during the upcoming festive period.
Health experts have repeatedly warned that the Congo virus requires serious preventive action. They stress that awareness and early response are essential to control its spread.
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