Rise in COVID-19 cases amid seasonal illness in Nepal

KATHMANDU: As the weather changes, Nepal is witnessing a rise in patients showing symptoms similar to COVID-19, including cough, fever, and flu-like infections.

Health officials have confirmed a resurgence of coronavirus cases, particularly near border areas.

According to Dr. Chandra B. Jha, Director at the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, although COVID-19 cases at border entry points have declined recently, some infections are still being reported — especially in Kanchanpur, a district bordering India.

Since mid-January (Poush 17), a total of 160 COVID-19 cases have been recorded across the country. In the past week alone, 30 new cases were detected, with five confirmed in the last 24 hours.

The breakdown of infections by province is as follows:

Bagmati Province: 129 cases

Sudurpaschim Province: 17 cases

Madhesh Province: 5 cases

Koshi, Gandaki, and Lumbini Provinces: 3 cases each

To monitor the situation, 640 antigen testing kits have already been distributed to border points.

Dr. Jha stated that preparations are underway to procure more kits in light of the potential risk.

Dr. Yuwanidhi Bista, Director of Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, noted an increase in patients visiting the hospital with cold and fever symptoms.

Similarly, Health Ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki attributed some of the recent cases in Nepal to the surge in infections in India, with sporadic cases of flu and COVID-19 being observed.

Dr. Budhathoki also warned that unvaccinated individuals, senior citizens, and those with chronic illnesses remain at higher risk of serious illness from the virus.

Health authorities urge the public to remain cautious, especially vulnerable groups, and to continue following preventive measures as seasonal infections rise.