KATHMANDU, May 22: Nepal reported a total of 487cases of COVID-19 as of Friday morning since the first case was confirmed on January 24.  

With the number of tests being expedited and the increasing number of Nepalis entering from the southern border, Nepal has witnessed a sharp increase in the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in recent days.

According to the latest statement issued by the Ministry of Health and Population earlier today, 30 new patients contracted this virus in Nawalparasi (East), Nawalparasi (West), Chitwan, Sarlahi and Kapilvastu districts. 

Of the total confirmed cases, three patients-- one each from Sindhupalchowk, Banke and Gulmi district died of this disease while 49 have recovered and returned home. 

As of Friday morning, COVID-19 has been detected in 38 districts so far. Banke, the worst-hit district,  has reported 101 cases of this disease, followed by Parsa where 91 cases have been detected as of Friday morning. 

Most of the infected are between 21 and 30 years of age, according to data published by the ministry.  Of the total cases, 168 are of this age group, while one patient is of more than 80 years of age. A total of 412 males and 75 females have been infected. 

275 patients are under 30, which is alarming for a country like Nepal where youths leave their land for employment.

 
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• Nepal