KATHMANDU: An outbreak of viral infections has reached a peak in the mountainous district of Solukhumbu, straining health services at Phaplu Hospital.
The surge in patients suffering from viral fever, cold, cough, asthma, pneumonia, diarrhea, headache, and respiratory issues has created significant challenges in managing healthcare services.
The hospital, a 15-bed facility, currently has over 50 patients admitted, with many in critical condition requiring oxygen support, even in the OPD.
Due to the overwhelming number of patients, even maternity ward beds are being used for viral infection cases. Dr. Ram Babu Joshi warned that if the situation worsens, patients might have to be treated on the floor.
According to Acting Chief Sani Sherpa, limited manpower and a shortage of essential medicines are compounding the crisis.
“We don’t have staff, but the pressure of patients is high. We are currently mobilizing all available resources,” Sherpa said.
Despite having a newly constructed 30-bed well-equipped building, which was inaugurated recently, the hospital is facing a manpower shortage, making it difficult to provide effective treatment.
The hospital was originally established 54 years ago by Sir Edmund Hillary and now has modern facilities, but it still lacks sufficient staffing.
Krishna Prasad Niraula, chief of the District Coordination Committee, assured that coordination with local, provincial, and federal governments will be pursued to address the gaps in manpower and equipment. Similarly, Namgeljangbu Sherpa, the mayor of Solududhkund Municipality, committed to enhancing the hospital’s efficiency and service standards.
Health officials have urged the public, especially children and the elderly, to take preventive measures, including wearing masks, maintaining hygiene, and avoiding crowds. The rapid transmission of viral infections is causing heightened concern, and locals are urged to stay vigilant and follow safety precautions.
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