The first case of Congo fever this year has been reported in Jodhpur, with the infected woman passing away in Ahmedabad. The woman, a resident of Nandda Kala village near Jodhpur, was admitted to a private hospital on September 30 due to a sudden decline in her health. Four days later, her family transferred her to Ahmedabad, where her samples were sent to a Pune laboratory, confirming the presence of Congo fever. This is reminiscent of the 2019 outbreak, where two people in Jodhpur succumbed to the same illness. Following this recent case, the health department is on high alert.
Congo fever, also known as Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, is a viral disease transmitted by ticks found on domesticated animals like cows, buffaloes, goats, and sheep. People who come into contact with these animals are at higher risk of contracting the virus. The disease was first identified in Crimea in 1944 and later in the Congo in 1969. It is primarily found in West and East Africa and has a high mortality rate, with 30 to 80 percent of infected patients dying.
Symptoms of Congo fever include a sudden high fever, eye irritation, sensitivity to light, dizziness, and severe muscle pain. Other signs include back pain, vomiting, and hoarseness. A significant drop in blood platelets also occurs as the infection progresses.
o prevent and manage Congo fever (Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever), it’s essential to follow safety guidelines, especially in areas or professions where there is contact with livestock or potential exposure to tick bites. Here are some key Do’s and Don’ts:
By following these precautions, the risk of contracting Congo fever can be significantly reduced.
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