Five things to know about the cholera outbreak in Birgunj
Summary
Birgunj is experiencing a cholera outbreak with 93 confirmed cases and three deaths linked to contaminated water and poor sanitation. Hospitals are treating over 300 patients, many in critical condition due to dehydration caused by severe diarrhoea and vomiting.
Key Points
- The cholera outbreak in Birgunj has caused three deaths and 93 confirmed cases, with over 300 people seeking treatment.
- Affected wards include 3, 11, 12, 13, and 16 of Birgunj Metropolitan City, with multiple hospitals reporting cases.
- The outbreak is attributed to contaminated drinking water, poor sanitation, and drought-induced water scarcity.
- Experts highlight this as the largest cholera outbreak in Nepal since Kalikot, exposing gaps in government preparedness and the need for improved water and sanitation management.
