Islamabad, April 16, 2025 – Pakistan’s National Institute of Health (NIH) has sounded the alarm on two pressing public health concerns: the Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) and escalating risks from heatwaves and sunstroke. As climate change fuels extreme weather and disease spread, the NIH is urging swift action to protect communities across the nation.
The CCHF, a deadly viral illness caused by the Nairovirus, is primarily transmitted through bites from infected ticks found on livestock like goats, sheep, and rabbits. Contact with infected animal blood or tissues, particularly during slaughter, also poses a significant risk. Human-to-human transmission is another concern, especially in healthcare or household settings. In 2024, Pakistan reported 61 CCHF cases, underscoring the virus’s persistent threat. To curb infections, the NIH advises wearing light-colored clothing to spot ticks easily, avoiding tick-heavy areas, and safely removing ticks from skin or clothing.
Meanwhile, soaring temperatures are amplifying the dangers of heatwaves and sunstroke, with climate change driving hotter summers. The NIH warns that heat-related illnesses and fatalities could spike in the coming years without proactive measures. Citizens are urged to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and adopt cooling strategies to combat extreme heat. Health experts emphasize that public awareness and preparedness are critical as climate-driven diseases become more frequent and severe.
Adding to the concern, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a heatwave alert, predicting scorching conditions in Sindh province through April 18. Districts such as Dadu, Jacobabad, Larkana, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Sukkur are expected to see daytime temperatures 6 to 8°C above normal, while Badin, Tharparkar, Umerkot, and Hyderabad may experience rises of 4 to 6°C. These abnormal conditions heighten the risk of heatstroke, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The NIH is calling on healthcare facilities and local authorities to implement robust preventive measures, including public education campaigns and enhanced surveillance for CCHF cases. As Pakistan navigates these twin challenges, experts stress the need for coordinated efforts to mitigate the impacts of infectious diseases and climate-driven heat. With summer approaching, the nation faces a critical window to bolster resilience and safeguard public health against these growing threats.
