Coronavirus infection reappears in Nepal, confirmed in 6 people
Nepal Health News, Kathmandu – The impact of the resurging coronavirus infections in neighboring countries India and China is now being seen in Nepal as well. Recently conducted tests have confirmed COVID-19 infection in 7 individuals in Nepal.
According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), one of the infected individuals tested positive at the National Public Health Laboratory, while the remaining six cases were confirmed at Dhulikhel Hospital.
Dr. Chandraball Jha, Director of the EDCD, stated that none of the infected individuals have a history of international travel, indicating the possibility of community-level transmission. However, all of them have already recovered and returned home.
Dr. Jha says that, based on coordination with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other health experts, the current situation is not considered severe, but caution is still necessary.
According to him, health desks at border checkpoints and airports have been reactivated for screening purposes. Health directorates in all seven provinces have been instructed to remain on alert, and a request has been made to the Ministry for the procurement of testing kits.
Need for Vigilance
Dr. Jha emphasizes that while there is no immediate threat of a pandemic, taking precautions is still important. Everyone has a responsibility to follow basic safety measures such as wearing masks, avoiding crowds, and washing hands regularly.
According to the latest WHO report, the newly detected variant does not appear to be of a severe nature, but it could pose a risk to individuals with chronic illnesses, the elderly, and children.
Dr. Jha further mentions that although at least 30–40 cases are typically required for variant testing, due to growing public concern, discussions are underway to begin testing even with fewer cases.
In conclusion, while the current outbreak is not at an alarming level, remaining vigilant is a wise course of action. The Ministry of Health, experts, and relevant agencies are on alert, but individual caution is equally important.
