Research Article
Safila Naveed, Naila Rehman
Abstract
Background: Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), a tick-borne disease has been in the news with reports of its outbreak in Pakistan. Pakistan is considered as an endemic country for CCHF during last two decades . Humans get this infection after a bite of an infected tick or from one infected human to another by contact with infectious blood or body fluids. Aim: To assess the level of knowledge regarding Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) among the local residence of Karachi, Pakistan. Method: This questionnaire based cross-sectional survey was conducted among the local residence of Karachi, Pakistan. The questionnaire was composed of 20 questions. The questionnaire included demographic information with their designation and knowledge level regarding sources, transmission, symptoms, prevention and treatment of Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF). Result: A total of 150 respondents interviewed in the survey. Sufficient knowledge about CCHF was not found in (23%) of the respondent participants. Literate individuals (71%) were relatively better knowledge about CCHF as compared to the illiterate people (29%). Television and internet (50%) were considered as the most important and useful source of information on the disease. Conclusion: This study revealed that the knowledge level of Karachi citizens about CCHF was insufficient. The need to educate the public about CCHF and the ticks is at an alarming level. As this disease can cause fatalities if the general community are not be informed and trained adequately. TV/radio broadcasts may be sufficient for the general public, but specialized educational programs and workshops are recommended for health workers and veterinary staffs.