Aug 25, Kathmandu - Cholera infection has been confirmed in 71 people in Birgunj so far. The Ministry of Health and Population has stated that cholera infection has been confirmed in 71 people in Birgunj Metropolitan City.

The ministry has stated that 194 people from wards 11, 12, 13 and 16 of the metropolis are being treated for diarrhea. Of these, 22 are being treated in the ICU and 6 in the HDU.

It has been stated that stool samples of people diagnosed with cholera have been collected and 22 samples have been sent to the Provincial Public Health Laboratory, Janakpur and 10 samples to the National Public Health Laboratory for testing.

The ministry said that samples have been collected from three water sources to identify the source of cholera and sent to the laboratory for cholera bacteria testing.

Similarly, 3 people have died in Birgunj due to cholera infection. The ministry has urged people to be vigilant as diarrhea, cholera and other water-borne diseases are particularly prevalent during the summer and rainy seasons.

To stay safe from infectious diseases, it is urged to use only boiled or chlorinated drinking water, pay special attention to personal and food hygiene, avoid defecating in the open, use toilets regularly, and wash hands with soap and water after defecating and before eating.