KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population has urged people to exercise caution following the identification of the J.N 1 variant of COVID-19 in India.

Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, Spokesperson for the Ministry, emphasized the importance of taking preventive measures to curb the potential spread of this variant in Nepal.

Dr. Budhathoki has urged the public to adhere to safety protocols, including maintaining social distancing, wearing masks at gatherings, including feasts and other social events, and practicing regular hand hygiene.

While the J.N 1 variant, a sub-variant of the Omicron strain, is already circulating in neighboring China and India, there are currently no confirmed cases in Nepal.

Nevertheless, heightened concerns about the variant’s possible entry into the country have prompted increased screening and surveillance at various entry points, as highlighted by Budhathoki.

The Ministry has assured the public that it is well-prepared for prevention and treatment management should the J.N 1 variant emerge in Nepal.

Coordination with relevant bodies is actively underway to address the evolving situation, it stated.