Cold wave in Mustang triggers surge in child illnesses

KATHMANDU: As winter intensifies, children in Mustang have been increasingly affected by cold-related illnesses such as coughs and pneumonia.

The extreme cold has had a particularly adverse impact on the health of children and elderly residents.

According to the Provincial Hospital in Jomsom, the number of patients suffering from cold-induced complications has risen sharply in recent weeks.

Medical Superintendent Dr. Samiksha Kandel said children are the most affected, largely due to the lack of adequate protection against the harsh winter. More than 80 percent of admitted patients are children.

Hospital records show that 749 patients took OPD services in Shrawan, 609 in Bhadra, 570 in Ashoj, and 488 in Kartik.

During the same period, 18 patients were admitted in Shrawan, 37 in Bhadra, 37 in Ashoj and 48 in Kartik. As of Mangsir 1–15, an additional 28 patients had been admitted.

Dr. Kandel said the 15-bed provincial hospital is facing bed shortages as the number of patients continues to grow daily.

Many children visiting the hospital are experiencing symptoms such as persistent cough, difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest congestion and fever.

Around 80 percent of those coming in with these problems are under the age of ten.

The hospital reported that the number of child admissions has increased by nearly 70 percent from mid-July to the second week of December.

Dr. Kandel urged parents to immediately take their children to the nearest health institution if symptoms of cough or pneumonia appear.

She also recommended proper ventilation when using firewood, coal heaters, geysers or room heaters; and advised drinking warm water and consuming liquid, nutritious food to stay safe during the winter.

Meanwhile, due to the extreme cold, many schools in Upper Mustang have already shifted to the lower areas (Bensi) to escape the harsh weather.

However, schools in Baragung, Gharpajhong and Thasang Rural Municipalities continue to operate.