Duhok Launches Campaigns to Tackle Hemorrhagic Fever, Mosquitoes

DUHOK — Two health campaigns are underway in different parts of Duhok governorate, targeting seasonal disease threats and pest control.

The Duhok Veterinary Department has begun washing and treating sheep and cattle in a move to prevent hemorrhagic fever, commonly spread by ticks and infected animals. The campaign is taking place in the districts of Qasrok, Gardasin, Zawita and Akre.

Duhok governorate has recorded two cases of hemorrhagic fever so far this year, according to health officials. The most recent case involves a 45-year-old woman from the Shiladze subdistrict of Amedi, who tested positive on May 22 after being hospitalized with symptoms four days earlier. The first case, also a 45-year-old woman, died on May 10, two days after being admitted to the same hospital.

“The campaign includes washing, spraying, and injecting some of the animals,” a source from the Veterinary Department said.

At the same time, another campaign led by the Bardarash Health Directorate is tackling a yearly surge in flies and mosquitoes. The spraying operation has been launched in Bardarash district center and the nearby districts of Roviya, Kalak and Daratu, extending to surrounding villages.

Officials say the 15-day campaign is scheduled to begin each day after Maghrib prayer and is designed to reduce mosquito numbers, which spike during this time of year and are known to contribute to disease transmission.

Health authorities have also advised beekeepers in affected areas to take precautions. “Beekeepers were warned to cover their flies well to avoid being damaged by the spraying,” a health worker said.