Tuberculosis cases on the rise in Shuklaphanta Municipality, Kanchanpur

Kanchanpur. The number of tuberculosis (TB) patients is on the rise in Shuklaphanta Municipality.

According to the municipality's health branch, 57 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis, including 12 women and 45 men, were confirmed in the last fiscal year. During the same period, 20 patients suffering from extra-pulmonary tuberculosis were also treated.

Health branch chief Parmananda Bhatta stated that 11 patients experienced a relapse of the disease last year. In the current fiscal year, 29 patients, including eight women and 21 men, are currently undergoing treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis. Additionally, three women and 10 men are being treated for extra-pulmonary tuberculosis, while five individuals have seen a recurrence of the disease.

“Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium 'Mycobacterium tuberculosis',” said branch chief Bhatta. “It is primarily transmitted through the air; the bacteria spread to healthy individuals through droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or spits.”

To ensure easy access for patients, the municipality has established DOTS centers in five locations: Bansah, Pitambar, Jhalari, Pipladi, and Bansamiti. These centers provide free medication, sputum testing, and treatment services under the direct supervision of health workers.