Influenza Outbreak Spreads Across Villages in Mugu District

A significant influenza outbreak has been reported across several municipalities in the Mugu district, causing widespread illness and a critical shortage of medical supplies. The outbreak, which began approximately ten days ago in Bamgaun, has now spread to the Mugum Karmarong and Khatyad rural municipalities.

Local health officials report that residents are suffering from symptoms including high fever, persistent cough, headaches, dizziness, and vomiting. The rapid spread of the virus has left many individuals confined to their homes, with children and the elderly identified as the most vulnerable groups affected by the illness.

Dr. Dipendra Jung Shahi of the District Hospital confirmed that nearly 800 patients were treated within a single week. The hospital currently manages an average of 150 patients daily. While medical staff are providing outpatient care and prescriptions, laboratory tests have confirmed the presence of the influenza virus, with further samples being sent to provincial labs for detailed analysis.

The surge in patients has led to an acute shortage of essential medicines in the region. Reports from Mugum Karmarong indicate that the local government has not purchased new medical supplies for three months. Although a specialized medical team recently treated 450 people in affected villages, health workers warn that existing stock is insufficient to meet the needs of every household.

The outbreak has also disrupted local education, with many students unable to attend classes due to illness. At Kalika Secondary School, approximately 80 out of 250 students are currently suffering from fever. While nearly three dozen health workers have been deployed to the field, local leaders expressed concern over the lack of support from provincial and federal authorities regarding emergency medical logistics.