KATHMANDU: Three individuals—two men and one woman—have tested positive for Covid-19 after returning to Sudurpaschim Province from India, health officials confirmed.

Hemraj Joshi, provincial contact person for the Health Directorate’s Epidemic Unit, identified the infected individuals as a 20-year-old man from Punarbas in Kanchanpur, a 32-year-old man from Dhakari in Achham, and a 24-year-old woman from Dhangadhi in Kailali.

According to Joshi, the infections were discovered during routine testing of 36 individuals who recently entered Nepal through the Gauriphanta border crossing from various Indian cities.

“We have instructed all Covid-positive individuals to remain in home isolation,” Joshi said.

To determine the specific variant of the virus, the swab samples of the three individuals have been forwarded to the Central Public Health Laboratory in Teku, Kathmandu, for PCR testing.

Amid a reported resurgence of Covid-19 cases in neighboring India, authorities in Sudurpaschim have increased surveillance measures at all border entry points. The aim is to prevent a similar outbreak within Nepal’s borders.

The Department of Health Services under the Ministry of Health and Population has instructed its offices, hospitals, and laboratories to remain on high alert.

All facilities have been told to maintain readiness in case of a surge in infections.

Despite the precautionary measures, Sudurpaschim Province is currently facing a shortage of Covid-19 testing kits. Health authorities warn that this shortfall could delay timely detention and response.