Kurdistan Region confirms first case of hemorrhagic fever

ERBIL – The Kurdistan Region has confirmed its first case of hemorrhagic fever, following a rise in suspected infections across several Iraqi provinces, including Kirkuk, where multiple cases and deaths have been reported in recent days.

The patient is a 42-year-old butcher from the city of Koya. He is being treated at a hospital in Erbil, where health officials say his condition is stable and under close supervision.

“After confirmation and verification of tests, the first case of hemorrhagic fever in the Kurdistan Region has been recorded,” Dr. Sarkar Surchi, spokesperson for the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Health Ministry, said in a statement issued May 2.

The ministry urged the public to follow preventive guidelines, especially individuals working in livestock and meat processing. Officials advised contacting veterinary teams if animals show signs of illness, and encouraged those who raise animals or handle meat to seek medical attention if symptoms appear.

Authorities issued updated safety recommendations for animal slaughter, including using approved slaughterhouses under veterinary oversight and wearing protective gear—gloves, boots, gowns, and face masks—during all handling and processing.

They also warned against gathering near slaughter areas or assisting without proper protection. Barehanded meat handling should be avoided, and hands must be washed thoroughly after removing gloves. Animal waste should be bagged and disposed of in designated areas, and any surfaces or tools exposed to blood should be disinfected with chlorine-based cleaners.

Fresh meat should be stored at 4–8°C for at least 24 hours before consumption, the ministry said, noting that frozen meat does not transmit the disease. Slaughtering sick or tick-infested animals is strongly discouraged.

According to the Iraqi Ministry of Health, Iraq has recorded 30 hemorrhagic fever infections since the start of the year, including five deaths.