Disinfection to aid Congo combat
Animals at the cattle market are vulnerable to Congo virus but people are either unaware or uncaring of the problem. Precautions must be taken to prevent buyers from getting infected with the disease. PHOTO: ATHAR KHAN/EXPRESS
Balochistan’s Caretaker Health Minister, Dr. Amir Khan Jogezai, announced on Tuesday the launch of a comprehensive cleanliness campaign in all public sector hospitals. The primary objective is to curb the further spread of the Congo virus. He made these remarks during a press conference held at the Quetta Press Club.
Dr. Jogezai stressed that while the situation regarding the Congo virus is currently under control, there remain ongoing medical concerns. Currently, ten doctors and paramedics are undergoing treatment for the Congo virus in a Karachi hospital. Unfortunately, the condition of two of them, including a female doctor, is critical. To address this issue and mitigate the risk of further spread, several measures have been put in place.
Also read Precautions taken against Congo virus
To prevent the virus from spreading, a ban on the slaughter of animals at locations other than official slaughterhouses has been imposed, and Section 144 has been enforced. This action is aimed at reducing the risk of transmission of the virus from animals to humans. The Congo virus outbreak initially originated in a ward and department at Quetta Hospital, leading to the infection of 11 doctors and medical staff, with one doctor tragically losing his life.
To contain the virus’s spread, the hospital initiated a comprehensive cleaning and disinfection process within the affected areas. Infected doctors and staff were transported to Karachi via air ambulance for further treatment, although adverse weather conditions hampered this
process