KARACHI:Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever, commonly known as the Congo virus, has claimed another life in Karachi and number of deaths caused due to the Congo virus increased to seven in the city this year. Faiz Islam, 15, who is a resident of Malir area has succumbed to the infection caused by Congo virus at Dr Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi(CHK).

Focal Person on Infectious Diseases at CHK Dr Azizullah while talking to PPI, confirmed Faiz was diagnosed with Congo virus. He was suffering from high grade fever and bleeding from nose when brought in emergency department last night and later moved to Medical Ward. He used to handle sacrificial animal at home. He informed that four Congo patients had been reported at CHK this year out of which three cured and discharged while a patient died due to Congo.

Sindh health department sources said 13 people have been reported in private and public sector hospitals of Karachi out of which nine were residents of Karachi. The deadly Congo has claimed seven lives in the current year. Currently, two Congo patients including Zahid (JPMC) and Haji Deen (private) are under treatment.

The Congo fever is a fatal viral disease that spread through a tick ( Chichar) bite, which is a parasite lives in the blood of animals. The Congo mainly contracted people who deal with cattle and livestock. The symptoms of Congo virus include backache, joints pain, pain in the abdomen, high fever and bleeding from any part of the body.