Nepal has recorded 10,210 scrub typhus cases across 74 districts in the first 40 epidemiological weeks of 2026, according to figures from the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD) reported on October 7.
Infections rose sharply during the monsoon and post-monsoon months. Lumbini Province recorded the most cases at 2,848 followed by Sudurpaschim with 2,013 and Gandaki with 1,895.
Gandaki, however, had the highest incidence rate, a 78.5 cases per 100,000 people. Sudurpashchim followed at 75.3 per 100,000, while Lumbini's rate was 55.3 per 100,000. The province with the most cases is not necessarily the one with the highest risk per person.
Dang recorded the most case of any district at 628. Syangja reported 525, Bajhang 457 and Sankhusawa 456. Nepal recorded 1,352 cases in July, 2,571 cases in August and 2,833 cases in September. Another 717 were reported in October.
Scrub typhus is a bacterial disease spread through the bites of infected larval mites known as chiggers. It is not the same as typhoid fever. Symptoms can include fever, chills, h eadache, muscle pain and rash. Some patients develop a dark, scab-like mark at the bite site. Without prompt treatment, the illness can become severe and may be fatal.
Health authorities advise people with symptoms to seek medical evaluation rather than self-diagnose, particularly after time in grassy, bushy or agricultural areas. Preventive measures includes clothing that covers the arms and legs, appropriate insect repellent, protect footwear and washing clothes after outdoor work.
Regarding the deaths caused, there have been seven recorded official deaths caused nationwide.
The EDCD has also published a national guideline on the diagnosis, management and prevention of scrub typhus, dated September 28, 2026.
