Health ministry figures
Three deaths from hemorrhagic fever confirmed in Iraq as cases rise to 22
MUTHANNA — Iraq’s Ministry of Health on Tuesday confirmed three deaths from hemorrhagic fever among 22 total infections reported across the country so far this year.
The latest fatality was recorded in Muthanna Governorate, the ministry said in a brief statement.
Last week, Kirkuk reported the first hemorrhagic fever death of 2025 when a 30-year-old butcher from Daquq district died Friday morning at Kirkuk General Teaching Hospital. A nurse in Kirkuk died days later, marking the year’s second fatality.
Iraq has experienced recurring outbreaks of hemorrhagic fever in recent years, particularly in rural areas where livestock handling is prevalent. According to Ministry of Health data released in October 2024, the country recorded 185 cases last year, including 26 deaths.
The disease is a viral infection spread through contact with infected animals or their meat, as well as tick bites. Common carriers include cattle, sheep, and goats.
