No cases of latest COVID variant in Nepal so far: MoHP
The ministry spokesperson, Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, emphasized the importance of wearing masks and practicing hand hygiene.
KATHMANDU: The Health and Population Ministry has issued a statement urging the public to adhere to COVID-19 safety measures, including mask-wearing and maintaining physical distance, particularly in areas prone to gatherings, festivals, parties, and potential confrontations.
The ministry spokesperson, Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, emphasized the importance of wearing masks and practicing hand hygiene.
The advisory comes in light of the rising concerns over the new J.N 1 variant and heightened vigilance at border checkpoints.
In response to the detection of the J.N1 variant in neighboring countries, including India, the National Laboratory in Nepal is intensifying sample testing to identify any potential cases.
The J.N1 variant has been identified in various regions, such as Delhi, Chandigarh, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, prompting increased surveillance in Nepal. While there is no confirmation of the variant’s presence in Nepal yet, the ministry is taking precautionary measures to ensure timely detection and containment.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning regarding the potential spread of the J.N1 variant, which has been identified in several countries, including China, the United States, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. However, as of now, there is no confirmation of the variant’s transmission in Nepal.
The Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and has directed the National Laboratory to conduct sample testing to confirm the presence or absence of the new variant.
The WHO has emphasized the need for increased caution and adherence to preventive measures, especially in areas where other respiratory infections are prevalent.
The Health Ministry urges the public to wear masks, maintain social distancing, wash hands regularly, and seek testing if they exhibit symptoms related to COVID-19.
The advisory aims to prevent the potential spread of the virus and mitigate the risk of a new variant affecting the population.
