COVID-19 cases surge with 28 new infections in a week, health officials urge vigilance

KATHMANDU: Over the past week, a notable rise in patients displaying symptoms of Coronavirus infection has been observed, raising concerns among health professionals.

Doctors report an increase in cases of fever and flu among the populace.

Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, disclosed that 28 new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed last week.

These cases were traced back to individuals who had recently arrived in Sudurpaschim Province from neighboring India.

The emergence of the JN.1 variant of the Coronavirus in India earlier this year has led to sporadic appearances of COVID-19 cases in Nepal as well, according to Dr. Budhathoki.

He emphasized that individuals who have not yet been vaccinated against the Coronavirus, along with those suffering from chronic illnesses and elderly citizens, remain particularly vulnerable to contracting the flu-like infection.

As a precautionary measure, he urged the public to observe necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.

Meanwhile, Dr. Yuwanidhi Basaula, Director at the Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Diseases Hospital in Teku, reported an influx of COVID-19 patients seeking treatment at the facility.

"Due to the changing weather conditions, we are observing an increase in patients presenting with flu-like symptoms," Dr. Budhathoki acknowledged, dispelling rumors suggesting the absence of COVID-19 cases at the hospital.

He further revealed that three COVID-19 patients were receiving intensive care unit (ICU) treatment at the hospital, while two others were admitted to the general ward.

With the lack of ICU facilities in other hospitals, patients are increasingly turning to the Teku-based facility for treatment.