New variant of COVID-19 in India & China, risk in Nepal
The ministry has called for maintaining physical distance and practicing hand hygiene.
KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) has urged caution as the new variant of COVID-19, J.N 1, has been reported in neighboring countries India and China.
The ministry spokesperson, Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, emphasized the importance of adopting precautionary measures, including the use of masks in crowded places such as fairs, feasts, parties, and other gatherings.
The ministry has called for maintaining physical distance and practicing hand hygiene.
While the J.N 1 variant, a sub-variant of the Omicron strain, is already spreading in neighboring China and India, there have been no confirmed cases in Nepal so far.
Despite this, heightened concerns about the variant’s potential entry into the country have led to increased screening and surveillance at various entry points, according to Budhathoki.
The Ministry is well-prepared for prevention and treatment management in case the J.N 1 variant surfaces in Nepal and it is coordinating with relevant bodies accordingly.
The ministry is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with international counterparts.
Health authorities are conducting screenings and surveillance, while preparations are in place for the prevention and management of the new variant.
