Duhok confirms three new cases of hemorrhagic fever in Bardarash

DUHOK — Three cases of hemorrhagic fever have been reported in the Bardarash district of Duhok Governorate, with all patients now in stable condition, according to the Duhok Health Department.

Matin Jameel, spokesperson for the Duhok Health Directorate, told 964media that the three affected individuals — a 52-year-old mother, her 21-year-old son, and 20-year-old daughter, all residents of Bardarash — contracted the virus while working in livestock farming.

“The cases were identified a week ago, and today, their test results from Baghdad confirmed they have hemorrhagic fever,” Jameel said. “The patients have responded well to treatment, and their health is now stable. They will be discharged soon and return home.”

These three cases bring the total number of reported hemorrhagic fever cases in the Kurdistan Region to 13 this year, with two fatalities.

Across Iraq, excluding the Kurdistan Region, the number of cases is much higher, with 184 reported, including 23 deaths. However, the Ministry of Health has reassured citizens that this year’s figures are relatively lower than those recorded last year.

Dr. Saif Al-Badr, the ministry’s spokesperson, told the state newspaper Al-Sabah on Sept. 8 that the reduced numbers this year could be linked to increased awareness and preventive measures. He attributed the spread of the disease primarily to the random slaughter of livestock, particularly infected animals, which can transmit the virus through ticks or direct contact with the tissues or bodily fluids of infected animals. Most cases have been reported among livestock farmers and butchers.

According to Al-Badr, the latest statistics show that Dhi Qar province has the highest number of cases, with 35 infections and six deaths. Baghdad follows with 26 cases, including three deaths, while Anbar has reported the fewest, with just two cases. He emphasized that the Ministry of Health’s primary role is to diagnose and treat those infected.

Hemorrhagic fevers mainly affect individuals in close contact with infected animals, such as farmers, slaughterhouse workers, and healthcare providers treating infected patients. The virus can also be transmitted through tick bites or contact with contaminated bodily fluids.

Symptoms usually start with a sudden onset of fever, fatigue, dizziness, and muscle aches. As the disease progresses, patients may experience severe headaches, abdominal pain, and vomiting. In more severe cases, it can cause bleeding under the skin, in internal organs, or from body openings like the mouth, eyes, or ears. This bleeding is often accompanied by shock, low blood pressure, and multi-organ failure. Without prompt medical intervention, hemorrhagic fevers can be fatal.