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An outbreak of scrub typhus has been ongoing in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, during 2015. This is the first large scale outbreak of scrub typhus in Kathmandu with a high fatality rate. A total of 75 cases have been confirmed and 8 cases have had a fatal outcome.
Scrub typhus has also been reported in the neighbouring district of Dhading where the patients have recovered uneventfully following treatment with doxycycline.
Scrub typhus is an infection caused by a rickettsia-like bacteria. The infection is transmitted by infected larval trombiculid mites and rats or mice may act as reservoirs. Humans may become infected in areas where the mites and rodents are present, most often areas of low-lying scrub brush or vegetation.
Travellers should be aware of the risk of scrub typhus, particularly those visiting rural areas who should avoid close contact with this type of vegetation. The skin should be protected with clothing (ideally permethrin treated) and DEET insect repellent on exposed skin.
