In a proactive measure to curb the spread of Congo Crimean Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), the Attock district administration has declared a livestock emergency following the unfortunate demise of two individuals due to the deadly virus.
Under the newly imposed Section 144, stringent measures have been put in place, including the prohibition of cattle markets and inter-district movement of livestock for the upcoming ten days leading to Eidul Azha.
A pivotal meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Rao Atif Raza, encompassing stakeholders from various departments, has led to crucial decisions to contain the outbreak. Notably, cattle market activities in Gondal, Domel, Jand, and Gali Jageer have been suspended. Additionally, a comprehensive ban on inter-district and inter-provincial cattle movement has been enforced.
In a bid to ensure strict implementation, surprise visits were conducted by Deputy Commissioner Rao Atif Raza and Assistant Commissioner Hassanabdal to key checkpoints, monitoring potential cattle movements across borders.
Commissioner Rawalpindi Division Engineer Aamir Khattak also inspected the livestock checkposts, emphasizing the significance of robust measures in thwarting the virus’s spread.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, District Health Authority Chief Executive Dr Asad Ismail revealed the grim reality of the recent cases. The virus claimed the lives of two individuals, Mohammad Imran and Khair Khanum, with symptoms including high fever and bleeding, indicative of CCHF.
Dr Abdul Hameed of the Attock Livestock Department underscored the department’s proactive stance, ensuring the establishment of checkpoints to enforce the ban effectively.
In a concerted effort to mitigate further spread, the Punjab government has dispatched a specialized committee comprising experts to investigate the root causes and formulate a comprehensive strategy to contain the outbreak.
With Eidul Azha approaching and the anticipated surge in cattle movement, these measures are pivotal in safeguarding public health and curtailing the spread of this lethal disease.
