Viral Fever in Baitadi Confirmed as Influenza B After Two Brothers Die

Baitadi. The viral fever spreading in Mahara village of Purchaundi Municipality-10, Baitadi, has been confirmed as 'Influenza B'. The viral fever was confirmed as the 'Influenza B' virus in tests conducted at the Provincial Public Health Laboratory in Dhangadhi.

Following the deaths of two brothers from the viral fever—13-year-old Binod Mahara on Falgun 11 and 10-year-old Bikash Mahara on Falgun 16—a team of health workers was dispatched to Mahara village.

According to Binod Kumar Kunwar, the head of the health branch of Purchaundi Municipality, 'Influenza B', a seasonal flu, was confirmed after 'throat swabs' were collected from 10 individuals for testing. Health Branch Chief Kunwar stated that although this disease is generally mild, it spreads rapidly, especially among children and the elderly.

He advised that children under five, pregnant women, and individuals over 65, as well as those with chronic conditions like asthma, heart disease, and diabetes, should take special precautions. The death of two brothers from the same household in Mahara village and the outbreak of seasonal flu 'Influenza B' in the village prompted the deployment of a health team to the area to conduct health check-ups and distribute medicine.

Health workers have urged the public to adopt necessary health precautions, such as washing hands with soap and water, avoiding crowds, and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing.