Swine flu panic spreads in West

Himalayan News Service

KUSMA/BENI: Parbat is in the grip of panic after nine people tested positive for swine flu. According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), under the Ministry of Health and Population, the total number of swine flu cases in the country has reached 60.

Around 2,500 patients have made rounds of government and private health centres since viral fever broke out in the district 10 days ago. Terrified locals are buying masks to keep the contagious disease at bay.

An all-party meeting, which was held at Kusma, headquarters of Parbat, decided to shut down educational institutions for one more week.

The number of patients, who are suffering from viral fever, is increasing daily. The flu panic has spread to neighbouring Kaski and Baglung districts as well.

Dr Tarun Poudel, superintendent, Baglung Zonal Hospital, urged the locals to follow all preventive measures.

PABSON has shut down schools in Baglung since yesterday. But, the government-run educational institutions are open. Beni, the headquarters of Myagdi, is on high flu alert. Some of the private schools have made wearing of masks compulsory.

Team on its way

KATHMANDU: The EDCD is dispatching a six-member team to Parbat and Baglung districts on Saturday to take stock of the situation on the ground.

Dr Vishwo Raj Khanal, senior epidemiologist, EDCD, said that the team would visit the swine flu-hit areas and coordinate with the districts' officials.

The team comprises EDCD, WHO, Avian

Influenza Control Project and National Public Health Laboratory officials. — HNS