Congo virus.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is caused by a virus belonging to a group called Nairovirus. The virus infects wild as well as domestic animals like sheep and cattle through tick bites. Humans are infected when they come in direct contact with blood or tissues from infected animals or bites of infected ticks. The disease is also described in Congo, hence it was named Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever. The disease is more common in Africa, Asia, East Europe and the Middle East. A recent outbreak has been Pakistan. Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a viral disease that spreads through tick bite, crushing of infected tick could also result in infection. Infection may also occur if people breathe in the virus passed out in the infected animal’s excreta. Thus, people who work in close contact with livestock such as those working in ,farms, abattoirs and veterinary hospitals are at a higher risk of acquiring the disease. Preventive measures and early diagnosis can save lives! Less than half the people who contract this virus die, and that too due to improper treatment. When a human is affected, the infection spreads to other people if they come in contact with the patient’s infected blood or body fluids. Infection could also spread in hospitals during injections and surgical procedures. Hospital staff that treat patients with CCHF are at a higher risk for developing the infection. Symptoms may vary person to person but certain pointers are indications of infection;· flu-like symptoms appear first, which may end in a week’s time. Signs of hemorrhagic fever follow and if not treated ,there is confusion, aggression, mood swings, fever, red eyes, flushed face, joint pain,epistasis vomiting and black/tarry stools. This is followed by a swollen liver which causes pain in the upper abdomen, kidney failure, breathing problems, low blood pressure, rapid heart rate and eventually a shock . Prevention is by elimination of ticks,proper biosecurity and personal hygiene. Kill ticks by spraying your animals with antitick preparation and use a protective spray on your clothes and clothing and materials as well. Isolation of patients with the virus, maintain minimal and protected contact. Wear gloves and masks when with patients and hand hygiene is important. The syringes and needles used must be disposed properly. Abattoir workers, hunters, farm-hands and help and all who handle raw meat during slaughtering, processing and supply are at risk and should be properly kitted and observe strict bio security· Minimize insect bites, pests and rodents in the house ,farms,hospitals,abattoirs and other beef processing outfits.