WRH seal on 15 swine flu cases

Bibhu Bhusal

POKHARA: The Western Regional Hospital (WRH) today confirmed that 15 patients tested positive for swine flu.

Buddhi Bahadur Thapa, superintendent, WRH, said that 19 samples were sent to the laboratory in the capital between November 2 and 4. All the patients are children, aged between 2 and 14.

Dr Shree Krishna Shrestha, a pediatrician, said that the number was likely to go up since the authorities were yet to receive the test results of more than 700 patients.

The doctors urged the public not to press the panic button. “The disease's potency largely depends on the patient's immunity. But all those suffering from diabetes, AIDS and heart condition should take special care,” said Dr Basanta Tamrakar,

While, Dr Lumeswor Acharya had a word or caution for children and senior citizens, who are most vulnerable to the pandemic.

Private school authorities in the Lake City said that many students were afflicted with common cold in the past few days. “It's better to shut down the schools since the disease can spread rapidly,” said Dr Acharya.

Paying heed to the advice, PABSON, Kaski, has decided to close the educational institutions in swine flu-hit areas.

Baburam Panta, ex-deputy chairman, PABSON, Kaski, said that the organisation had launched an awareness campaign. The government schools in the district, too, have followed suit.

Baikuntha Aryal, District Education Officer, Kaski, also organised an interaction on the pandemic today.

Swine flu scares devotees

MYAGDI: Galeswor shrine in the district had fewer pilgrims on Bala Chaturdashi today as compared to last year, thanks to swine flu rumour. Also, there were fewer devotees who stayed here overnight. A priest said that people from Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan used to visit the shrine.