Iraq reports 19 deaths from Congo fever in 2025 surge

Iraq reports 19 deaths from Congo fever in 2025 surge
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Iraq has reported 19 deaths from Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever so far this year, with 123 cases recorded nationwide, according to the Health Ministry. Spokesman Saif Al-Badr said the southern province of Dhi Qar, which relies heavily on livestock farming, accounted for 36 cases.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states the virus is transmitted through tick bites or contact with infected animal blood or tissues, particularly during or after slaughter. The disease has a fatality rate of 10% to 40%, with most cases affecting individuals working in the livestock sector.

Authorities are urging farmers and abattoir workers to take extra precautions when handling animals.
A major outbreak in Iraq in 2022 resulted in at least 27 deaths. The WHO linked that surge to a rise in tick populations, attributed to the suspension of pesticide spraying campaigns during 2020 and 2021.