COVID-19 infection detected in 8 individuals in Sudurpaschim State

KATHMANDU: COVID-19 infections have re-emerged in the Sudurpaschim State of Nepal after being absent for the last month. Antigen testing at the border checkpoint with India revealed eight individuals testing positive for the coronavirus in the past week.

Gauriphanta border checkpoint’s Health Desk in-charge Ganesh Saud informed that samples were collected using the antigen testing method, and results confirmed COVID-19 infection in eight individuals.

“Samples from the infected individuals will be sent to the laboratory in Kathmandu for further testing, including identifying the virus variant if any,” stated Saud. He emphasized the need for additional testing to determine the virus variant, given the recent global concerns regarding new variants.

Infected individuals will either be advised to stay in home isolation or hospitalized based on the severity of symptoms.

Saud also mentioned coordination with local authorities for appropriate measures. After the detection of new virus variants, global health organizations had issued alerts a few days ago, and Saud reiterated the importance of additional testing to stay vigilant.

According to Saud, individuals crossing the border from India will be subjected to thorough testing, and those found infected will be managed accordingly.

He highlighted that monitoring and coordination with local authorities are crucial to control any potential spread.

As of the latest data from the Health Directorate and the State Health Emergency Operation Center, three individuals were reported to be infected with COVID-19 in the last three days in the state.

According to the directorate’s statistics, during the antigen test of 76 suspected citizens entering through Gauriphanta and Gaddachauki border crossings in the last 24 hours, infection was found in one person and two persons on Poush 8 (Dec 24).