KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population has stated that it is fully committed to safeguarding public health and has urged citizens not to panic but to remain alert and responsible regarding the Nipah virus.
The Ministry said it is aware of the public health risks posed by the Nipah virus reported in some countries and has taken all necessary precautionary measures.
Although the World Health Organization has assessed the overall public health risk of Nipah virus as low at both global and Southeast Asia regional levels, the ministry said preparedness and awareness measures have been strengthened in view of cases reported in neighboring countries.
As a precaution, the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division has alerted health institutions and agencies nationwide, and necessary arrangements have been made for Nipah virus testing.
According to the Ministry, the Nipah virus can be transmitted through the consumption of fruits contaminated with urine, feces, or saliva of infected bats.
The ministry has therefore urged the public to follow standard public health practices, including washing fruits thoroughly, consuming well-cooked vegetables, drinking boiled or safe water, maintaining cleanliness in animal sheds and farms, using protective gear such as gloves and masks while handling meat, washing hands frequently with soap and water, and wearing masks in crowded places.
The Ministry also advised that individuals showing symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, dizziness, cough, breathing difficulty, nausea, vomiting, or, in severe cases, loss of consciousness, should be isolated and reported immediately.
Citizens have been urged to contact the nearest health facility or call the health hotline 1115 if they experience suspicious symptoms. The ministry clarified that no confirmed cases of Nipah virus have been reported in Nepal so far and assured that health authorities are fully prepared to minimize any potential risk.
The Ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with national and international partner agencies and has urged the public to avoid rumors and rely only on official information issued by the Ministry of Health and Population.
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