PESHAWAR: The Health Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has issued an alert in hospitals across the province to prevent the spread of Congo Virus (CCHF) ahead of Eid-ul-Adha. The advisory urges the public to take extra precautions when handling livestock and provides guidelines for medical staff to follow strict infection control protocols.
The health department has stressed upon the people to be cautious regarding animal exposure and has recommended wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). It is also emphasized that the samples need to be carefully sent to laboratories in triple packages. The advisory has also suggested keeping ticks away from livestock to prevent virus transmission to the livestock and approved PCR and ELISA tests for diagnosing the disease.
Health Department has warned the people that the livestock handlers and butchers have more chances of contracting the virus because the CCHF virus can transmit to humans via blood and other body fluids. People are asked not to eat contaminated meat and come into contact with the sick livestock. Tick bites are one of the means of virus transmission; therefore, proper examination and treatment should be done.
When is Eid ul Adha 2026? Experts reveal when the festivities are likely to begin
Meanwhile, experts from the field of astronomy have predicted that Eid ul Adha 2026 is most likely to be observed on Wednesday, May 27. The projections were based on lunar calculations and astronomical data, offering an initial forecast for the religious observance.
The Emirates Astronomy Society specialists expect that the Islamic month of Zul-Hijjah will start on May 18 while Arafah Day will occur on May 26. The predictions match both the lunar cycle and the regional astronomical charts.
The new moon appearance will begin Zul-Hijjah when astronomers predict its sighting to happen on May 17 during nighttime. The crescent moon sighting which serves as the main method to determine the start of Islamic months requires assessment of its age and visibility from various locations. Upcoming favorable weather conditions will enable people to see the moon in different areas according to expert predictions.
The chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society Ibrahim Al-Jarwan explained that the astronomical conditions of May 17 create strong evidence for crescent moon sighting. The expected new moon will occur at 12:01 PM UAE time which strengthens the possibility of Zul-Hijah starting on May 18.
The officials have stated that Eid ul Adha will be confirmed after religious authorities conduct official moon sightings.
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