Tragic Death of Animal Handler from Congo Fever in Peshawar Raises Concerns

PESHAWAR: A 22-year-old animal handler from North Waziristan succumbed to Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) on June 18, 2025, shortly after being admitted to the Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC). This incident has prompted health officials to raise alarms regarding the disease's potential resurgence in the region, particularly in the context of the upcoming Eidul Azha festival, which typically sees increased human-animal interaction.

According to Dr. Mussawir Manzoor, Deputy Director of Public Health in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the deceased was initially treated at a local hospital in Waziristan before being referred to HMC as his condition deteriorated. Test results confirmed the presence of CCHF, a viral disease primarily transmitted through tick bites or contact with infected animals. Dr. Manzoor reported that prior to this incident, the province had recorded only two cases of CCHF in April and four in June, with the majority of patients recovering, save for one fatality linked to high-risk occupations including animal handling and butchery.

The provincial health department has initiated measures to contain the spread of CCHF, especially as the festival approaches. Health officials have implemented disinfection protocols in animal markets and are actively screening individuals who exhibit symptoms or have close contacts with confirmed cases. "We have advised district health officers and medical superintendents to collaborate with the livestock department due to the heightened risk of disease transmission during this period," stated Dr. Manzoor, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enhance awareness and preventive measures.

The presence of CCHF in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is not new; however, the consistent occurrence of cases raises questions about the effectiveness of public health strategies. Doctors in the region note that this year's cases are indicative of broader systemic issues, including inadequate preventive measures among communities regularly interacting with livestock. "Despite the annual occurrence of CCHF, many individuals remain unaware of the necessary precautions, which has led to preventable fatalities," remarked Dr. Faisal Khan, an infectious diseases specialist at Khyber Medical University.

In response to the outbreak, health authorities have established a free courier service for sending samples to the Public Health Reference Laboratory (PHRL) at Khyber Medical University. Previously, the cost of testing at private institutions posed significant barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Manzoor emphasized, "The PHRL aims to ensure early diagnosis and prevent outbreaks by providing accessible testing services for diseases, including CCHF."

The current situation has raised broader concerns about the intersection of health and agricultural practices in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Experts argue that a lack of awareness and preventive infrastructure exacerbates the risks associated with zoonotic diseases like CCHF. "The government must intensify educational campaigns focusing on safe animal handling practices and the importance of reporting symptoms early," stated Dr. Sarah Johnson, a public health expert at Harvard University.

In conclusion, the tragic death of the young animal handler serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by those in high-risk occupations and the urgent need for comprehensive health measures to mitigate the spread of zoonotic diseases. As Eidul Azha approaches, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa health department's response will be critical in preventing further fatalities and ensuring public safety.