Kathmandu, Aug. 26 -- Following earlier rapid diagnostic tests suggesting cholera, the National Public Health Laboratory has now officially confirmed the outbreak in Birgunj Metropolitan City.

Of the 10 stool samples of the infected patients, eight have tested positive for cholera.

"Vibrio cholera 01 Ogawa serotype has been detected in eight stool samples," Dr Ranjan Raj Bhatta, director at the laboratory told the Post. "We have sent two samples for subculture [for further confirmation]."

At least three people died and over 300 people have been infected with cholera that has spread in 3,11,12,13, and 16 wards of the metropolis since last week. Scores of ailing patients have been admitted to intensive care units of health facilities acr...