Tannery worker dies of Congo virus

19-year-old Moiz was admitted to Jinnah hospital on Sunday

KARACHI: A 19-year-old youth, Moiz, died on Tuesday of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever, commonly known as Congo virus. This was the second death reported in the city due to the disease in 2018.

Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) Executive Director Dr Seemi Jamali said Moiz, who worked at a tannery, was brought to the hospital on Sunday in a serious condition.

"Moiz, [who] reportedly handed animal hides, was immediately admitted and shifted to an intensive care unit with adequate provision for isolation," Dr Jamali explained. The JPMC chief added that two more cases of Congo virus were brought to the hospital this year who were treated. Both the patients hailed from Balochistan and were discharged after successful treatment.



The first casualty that was reported in Karachi due to Congo virus in 2018 was that of 36-year-old Sadiq Ali. He was a resident of Lyari and died last month while being admitted to a hospital. His profession was also related to cattle.

According to veterinary doctor Sahabdad Khan, this impression is incorrect that the tick causing the virus is found in some specific kinds of cattle. All animals must be regularly vaccinated and exposed to mandatory anti-viral spray.

Khan also warned of the possibility of emergence of more cases of Congo virus during Eidul Azha, which is around two months from now. He also urged people involved in cattle-related professions to take necessary precautions.