Scrub typhus cases surge in Chitwan, Nawalpur – The Himalayan Times – Nepal’s No.1 English Daily Newspaper

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 21

Cases of scrub typhus have surged in central Nepal, with 246 infections confirmed in Chitwan and 44 in Nawalpur, according to health authorities.

In Chitwan, 4,108 individuals sought medical attention this year, of whom 246 tested positive for the mite-borne disease. Among them, 181 are local residents and 65 are from other districts, said Ram KC of the Chitwan Public Health Office. The highest number of cases has been reported in Ratnanagar Municipality (61), followed by Khairahani (43) and Bharatpur Metropolitan City (25).

Similarly, in Nawalpur, infections have risen sharply following the retreat of the monsoon. The Province Public Health Office reported 44 cases so far this year-up from 17 a month ago. “Scrub typhus is 30 times more fatal than dengue and needs urgent attention,” said Public Health Officer Chhabilal Subedi.

Caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi and transmitted through bites of infected mites commonly found on rodents, the disease causes fever, headache, rash, and sometimes a black scab at the bite site.

Health officials have urged the public to wear protective clothing, use insect repellents, and maintain clean surroundings to prevent infection, as no vaccine is currently available.