Typhoid spreading in Damauli

A medical team from the Department of Health initiated study into an outbreak of typhoid in Tanahun district headquarters Damauli on Tuesday.

The three-member team led by Dr. Ramesh Lamichhane arrived in Damauli on Monday. Dozens of people are taken ill of typhoid in Damauli and adjoining villages.

According to Rajendra Ranabhat, lab technician at Damauli Hospital, the waterborne disease has spread particularly in Wards No. 2, 10 and 11 of Byas Municipality. Of 446 blood samples examined last month, 326 tested positive for typhoid. “On Monday alone, 47 patients were diagnosed with typhoid among 60 that visited the hospital,” he said.

Patients share beds at Damauli Hospital in Tanahun. Photo: Purna BK

The 24-bed hospital is overcrowded with patients while private hospitals and clinics are also packed. The hospital source said it has admitted patients beyond its capacity. The hospital has been treating patients on the beds meant for attendants.

Dr. Sushilnath Pyakurel said typhoid cases are higher this year, adding, however, that the disease is not beyond control.