The Iraqi Ministry of Health has reported 14 confirmed cases of hemorrhagic fever since the beginning of the year, with two fatalities, raising concerns over the spread of the viral disease.

Ministry spokesperson Saif Al-Badr stated that the infections were distributed across several provinces, with the highest numbers in Dhi Qar (6 cases) and Kirkuk (4 cases). Single cases were also recorded in Baghdad, Muthanna, Nineveh, and Basra.

The two reported deaths occurred in Kirkuk, one of which was a healthcare worker. Al-Badr emphasized that most infections were among livestock handlers, stressing that early detection improves treatment outcomes.

Hemorrhagic fever, a zoonotic disease transmitted through infected animals, ticks, or contaminated meat, has been endemic in Iraq since the late 1970s. Last year saw a record surge in cases, though health authorities managed to contain the outbreak.

Al-Badr urged the public to store meat at low temperatures, cook it thoroughly, and seek medical attention if symptoms—such as high fever, bleeding, or organ failure—appear.

In a related development, a medical worker in Kirkuk succumbed to the disease earlier today, marking the second death in the governorate this week. Local sources confirmed four total cases in Kirkuk this week, with two fatalities and two patients in stable condition under treatment.

Health officials are monitoring the situation closely, with forensic teams processing the latest victim’s body before release to the family.

Authorities have reiterated warnings against handling livestock without protection and underscored the importance of public awareness to curb further infections.