RECORDER REPORT

LAHORE: In the wake of forthcoming Eid-ul-Azha, the Punjab primary and secondary healthcare department has issued alert and guidelines on Congo Virus to authorities concerned to all districts of Punjab and also asked them to raise awareness among the general public.

Director General Health Services Dr. Munir Ahmed said that very few cases of Congo fever have been reported so far in Punjab.

However, both health and livestock departments are working together in field, he added.

He requested the citizens to properly check animals before buying, and ensure there would be no hyalomma on body of animals. He also directed them to use preventive measures while handling the animals. He said that headaches, back pain, muscle pain, red spots on the body, blood vessel from nose, mouth and other body organ could be symptoms of Congo fever. If these symptoms appear, patients should visit nearest government hospital, he added.

While addressing a review meeting regarding Congo Virus, here Tuesday, Dr. Munir Ahmed said that directions for special preventive measures in this regard have also been issued to all field officers. He requested the citizens to adopt preventive measures to avoid Congo Virus.

Additional Secretary Technical Dr. Shahnaz Naeem said that districts of DG Khan, Bahawalpur and Rawalpindi divisions are highly sensitive due to massive transportation of animals to other districts. She insisted to accelerate surveillance activities in these areas.

Program Officer Livestock Dr. Haris said that 238 seal points of animals have been set up in Punjab and on every point livestock department has deputed their teams.

He further said that 179 teams for inspection of animals have also been deputed on exit and entrance routes of major cities.

Director CDC Dr. Muhammad Younus, Director Heath Services Dr. Saeed and officers from health department attended the meeting.