Ramechhap, September 17

With the number of seasonal flu patients growing, District Health Office Dolakha has opted for high alert measures in view of a possible epidemic in the district.

Some patients with seasonal flu were detected after a large number of patients complained of common cold, cough and fever. The office has been spreading awareness through microphone in Dolakha bazaar, Singati, Tamakoshi, Mainapokhari, Jiri and adjoining road areas to make the denizens aware about the disease.

According to the office, a large number of patients complained of fever in Bhimeshwor municipality 1 and 2.

Similarly, people in rural locations have also complained of common cold, cough, fever and the number is growing significantly.

As seasonal flu was detected in eight patients, DHO appealed to people to be more alert about the disease.

A team of experts from Department of Health Service has also has been sought, said Keshav Rijal, Chief at the Department of Disease Control, Dolakha.

“Schools in the district might remain closed for few days as per the advice of the team on account of a possible outbreak of the disease,” said Rijal.

Binod Dangal, a doctor at Gaurishankar General Hospital in Dolakha said, “A large number of locals were compelled to adjust in a combined accommodation with poor sanitation and hygiene after the devastating April earthquake ravaged their settlements causing the outbreak.” He advised the patients of common cold, cough and fever to stay at home, take rest and include hygienic food in their diet.

Staying away from infected persons, immediate consultation with the doctor in case of common cold, use of neat and clean handkerchiefs while coughing and sneezing, not spitting in the open and public places, washing hands and face with clean water and soap are said to be some of the preventive measures.

Earlier, the disease was detected in two patients in Ramechhap. “Though a large number of people have been visiting health facilities with fever, no one has been detected with seasonal flu until now,” said District Health Office Chief Dr Prakash Sah.