KATHMANDU: A new wave of COVID-19, recently observed in countries like India and China, has now been detected in Nepal. According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, seven individuals have tested positive for the virus — one through the National Public Health Laboratory and six at Dhulikhel Hospital.
Director of the division, Dr. Chandra Bhal Jha, stated that none of the infected individuals have a history of foreign travel and all have already been discharged and sent home. Discussions with the World Health Organization and other experts suggest that the situation does not warrant the same level of concern as previous outbreaks. However, necessary precautions and preparations are being initiated in light of the emerging trend.
Health desks have been set up at border points and international airports, and health directorates across all seven provinces have been instructed to remain on standby. The ministry has also been requested to procure additional testing kits.
Dr. Jha emphasized that while the chances of a large-scale outbreak are currently low, preventive measures such as mask-wearing, avoiding crowds, and frequent hand washing are still advised.
The World Health Organization has indicated that the variant currently circulating in India and elsewhere is relatively mild. While Nepal initially planned to sequence variants only after 30–40 cases, health officials are now considering sequencing even small numbers due to rising public concern.
Experts have warned that although the current variant appears less severe, individuals with chronic illnesses, young children, and the elderly remain vulnerable and should exercise caution.
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