Duhok Bans Livestock Imports Amid CCHF Fears
Duhok’s Health Directorate has banned livestock imports after confirmed cases of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), including recent deaths. The move aims to curb the outbreak’s spread, with authorities urging vigilance and swift reporting of suspected infections.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In response to a potential public health threat, the Directorate of Health in Duhok province has officially banned the import of sheep, goats, and cattle through all entry points of the province, effective Saturday, June 7, 2025.
In a formal statement issued the same day, the Duhok Health Directorate declared, “As of today, it is prohibited to import any sheep, goat, or cow in the province.” The directive has been communicated to all security, customs, and border authorities within the province to ensure immediate enforcement.
The measure follows the confirmation of several Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) cases in Duhok, prompting urgent action to mitigate further spread of the disease. The health authority cited the serious nature of the bacterial infection and its potential to endanger both animal and human lives.
“This decision was made in order to safeguard public health and prevent the risk of further infections,” the statement noted. The Directorate emphasized that the import ban is a temporary but critical measure, urging all relevant institutions to cooperate fully and prioritize community well-being.
The decision comes amid a series of confirmed patients infected with the CCHF disease in recent weeks. On May 10, a 45-year-old female livestock keeper from Shiladze subdistrict succumbed to the disease. On May 22, another case was recorded involving a 43-year-old female from the district of Amedi. Most recently, on June 3, Duhok General Health confirmed a new infection in the village of Begova, located in Batifa district.
CCHF, a potentially fatal bacterial disease, can spread from animals to humans and often arises from contact with infected livestock or contaminated animal products. The current outbreak has triggered heightened monitoring and emergency response protocols across the province.
Health officials in Duhok have called on the public to remain vigilant, comply with all regulations, and report any suspected cases immediately. The Directorate reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and containing the outbreak through coordinated interagency efforts.
