A veterinarian administers treatment to livestock as Iraqi health and agricultural authorities continue measures to prevent the spread of hemorrhagic fever.
Iraq records 15 new hemorrhagic fever cases and one death in past week
BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Health Ministry recorded 15 new hemorrhagic fever cases and one death in Dhi Qar governorate during the past week, bringing the total number of confirmed infections this year to 48 with four deaths, ministry spokesman Saif al-Badr said Monday.
Dhi Qar recorded five new infections and one death during the week, while Maysan, Muthanna and Wasit each recorded two cases. Single cases were recorded in Baghdad’s Rusafa district, Diyala, Diwaniyah and Kirkuk.
Cumulative 2026 figures stand at 21 infections and three deaths in Dhi Qar, six infections in Muthanna, five in Maysan, four infections and one death in Babil, four in Wasit, three in Diyala, two in Baghdad Rusafa and one each in Basra, Diwaniyah and Kirkuk.
Badr described hemorrhagic fever as a serious viral disease transmitted through tick bites or contact with infected animals, meat, skin and bodily fluids, with livestock breeders, traders, transporters and butchers among the most vulnerable. He urged those handling animals or meat to wear gloves and protective clothing, buy meat only from licensed slaughterhouses and cook it thoroughly. He warned that delays in seeking medical attention “can lead to dangerous hemorrhagic complications that may end in death,” while early diagnosis and isolation ward treatment significantly improve recovery chances.
Iraq’s Health Ministry recorded 231 infections and 30 deaths linked to the disease as of July 2025. In September 2025, the Agriculture Ministry launched a nationwide campaign to spray cattle and buffalo and dip sheep and goats free of charge as part of containment efforts.