The first Congo virus death in Pakistan this year was verified on Sunday. Last Thursday, outpatient Muhammad Adil, 28, from Liaquatabad, Karachi, arrived at the hospital.

According to Parliamentary Secretary for Health Qasim Siraj Soomro, Adil’s samples were sent to Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) for testing.

Adil tested positive for Congo virus. Health officials reported that Adil worked as a butcher at a supermarket in Liaquatabad and handled animals.

Adil took paracetamol at home on 30 April for a fever and headache. Two days later, he was admitted to Habib Medical Hospital for one day with a fever. His nose and mucous membranes bled. No malaria or dengue.

Two days later, Adil was transferred to Ziauddin Hospital in North Nazimabad. A health department official said Adil died on 5 May despite doctors’ best attempts.

A spokeswoman said Adil had no pets and had not left Karachi.

This is the first Congo virus infection in Pakistan this year. Medical professionals consider it a concern. Preventative actions and viral awareness are essential to reduce epidemics.