Vaccination with India's support: Campaign against Sickle Cell and Thalassemia launched

Nepal Health News, Kathmandu: The Government of Nepal has started the process of distributing free vaccines to control hereditary diseases like sickle cell anemia and, which are commonly seen in the Tharu community. This initiative is being carried out under the leadership of Health and Population Minister Pradeep Poudel, with vaccines provided by the Government of India now being distributed to the affected areas.

On Friday, during a special program organized by the Ministry of Health, Indian Ambassador Naveen Srivastava handed over the vaccines to Minister Poudel. The vaccines, worth $400,000 from India, will be used to enhance the immunity of patients suffering from sickle cell and thalassemia.

Minister Poudel had previously decided to establish dedicated wards for the treatment of these diseases at Rapti Health Science Academy and Bheri Hospital in Nepalganj. He had also discussed the matter with the Indian Health Minister during his visit to India, requesting their support.

The vaccines will now be distributed through government hospitals in districts with a high Tharu population, including Banke, Bardiya, Kailali, and Dang. The Epidemiology and Disease Control Division is coordinating this campaign.

Vaccines will also be made available at federal, provincial, and local hospitals such as Bheri Hospital, Seti Provincial Hospital, Rapti Health Science Academy, and Tikapur Hospital, as confirmed by Ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki.

According to Minister Poudel, the government is fully committed to treating this long-term health issue affecting the Tharu community. He believes that the availability of the vaccine will provide significant relief to the patients.

Ambassador Srivastava described this support as a step to strengthen Nepal-India relations. The Health Service Department is preparing to send the vaccines to the Supply Management Center in Butwal for storage and distribution.

Although both sickle cell and thalassemia are currently incurable diseases, it is believed that the vaccine will be effective in preventing further infection risks. This government initiative is expected to mark a positive turning point for health security in the Tharu community.