The National Institute of Health (NIH) has recently issued an advisory to address the prevention and control of two diseases, namely Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) and Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), also known as Naegleriasis. This advisory comes as a crucial step in sensitizing human and animal healthcare authorities to enhance their preparedness in managing and preventing these diseases effectively.
The Significance of the Advisory
With the upcoming Eid ul Adha, the NIH recognizes the potential increase in human-animal interaction, which can lead to a higher risk of disease transmission. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to remain vigilant and take the necessary steps to interrupt the spread of CCHF during this time.
Understanding CCHF
CCHF is a widespread disease caused by a tick-borne virus known as nairovirus, belonging to the Bunyaviridae family. Various wild and domestic animals, including cattle, goats, sheep, and hares, act as carriers for this virus. Humans can contract CCHF through tick bites or by coming into contact with infected animal blood or tissues during and immediately after slaughter. Transmission can also occur through contact with infected ticks or animal blood, as well as through contact with infectious blood, secretions, or body fluids from an infected person.
Current Scenario and Prevention Measures
According to the advisory, Balochistan has reported 81 suspected cases of CCHF, out of which 27 were positive and resulted in five deaths as of June 2023. Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has reported three suspected cases. It is important to note that there is currently no vaccine available for humans against CCHF, emphasizing the significance of raising awareness and taking preventive measures.
The advisory highlights several public health recommendations for reducing the risk of CCHF transmission. These include wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves and trousers, using light-colored attire to easily detect ticks, and applying approved insect repellents on the skin. Insect repellents are highly effective in preventing tick bites in human populations. Furthermore, individuals should avoid visiting areas where ticks are abundant and active during specific seasons.
Understanding Naegleriasis (PAM)
Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the “brain-eating amoeba,” is a single-celled, thermophilic, free-living pathogen found in various freshwater environments, including warm bodies of water like lakes, rivers, hot springs, and soil. Although the incidence of PAM is relatively low, it is widely distributed in tropical areas and primarily occurs during hot summer months.
Cases of PAM are often associated with freshwater sources such as lakes and pools. However, an increasing number of cases are now linked to drinking water systems. Since 2008, regular reports of PAM-related deaths have emerged from Karachi and other parts of the country. With three recently reported cases in 2023, the total count of PAM cases in the country has reached 150 over the last 14 years.
Preventive Measures for Naegleriasis
To reduce the risk of Naegleriasis, the NIH recommends various precautions during recreational water activities. These include avoiding diving or getting water up the nose, refraining from engaging in water-related activities when the water is not chlorinated, emptying and cleaning small collapsible bathing pools daily, ensuring proper chlorination and maintenance of swimming pools and spas, refraining from jumping or diving into warm freshwater bodies, and avoiding submerging the head in untreated geothermal waters. It is also important to prevent un-chlorinated water from entering the nose during bathing, showering, or face washing.
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As Eid ul Adha approaches, the NIH’s advisory on the prevention and control of CCHF and Naegleriasis plays a vital role in raising awareness and strengthening the preparedness of human and animal healthcare authorities. By following the recommended preventive measures, individuals can minimize the risk of disease transmission and ensure a safe and healthy Eid celebration for all.
