Over 5,000 infected with scrub typhus since January
Summary
Since January, over 5,000 people in Nepal have been infected with scrub typhus, a life-threatening disease spread by mite bites. Cases have risen nationally, including urban areas, posing a major public health concern.
Key Points
- Over 5,000 people have tested positive for scrub typhus in Nepal since January 2024.
- Lumbini province reported the highest number of infections with 4,322 cases.
- Scrub typhus is caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi and transmitted by infected chiggers on mice.
- Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics like doxycycline can reduce severity and fatalities.
