KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population has urged the public to remain cautious about the potential spread of waterborne and vector-borne diseases in the aftermath of recent floods and landslides across Nepal.
Ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki warned that while immediate concerns during disasters are usually physical injuries and infrastructure damage, illnesses like diarrhea, cholera, dengue, and malaria often surface later.
He advised people to adopt preventive health measures and seek medical attention at the first sign of illness. He also noted that the lack of clean food, water, and shelter in disaster-hit areas increases the risk of digestive infections, eye problems, and even mental health issues.
The ministry has instructed female community health volunteers, local health personnel, and elected representatives to raise awareness about the importance of drinking boiled water and maintaining hygiene in affected communities.
To ensure timely emergency care, the ministry has reminded the public to use the emergency hotline 102 for ambulance services equipped with trained drivers and health staff. For general health-related information during disasters, people can call 1115.
As the risk of landslides and further rainfall persists, all hospitals nationwide have been placed on high alert to handle potential injuries, outbreaks, and health emergencies.
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