India provides $2 million worth of Thalassemia, Sickle Cell vaccines

KATHMANDU: India has provided medicines and vaccines worth $2 million of Thalassemia and Sickle Cell vaccines.

Indian ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, handed over the first consignment of the vaccines to Minister of Health and Population Pradip Paudel on Friday.

Issuing a statement, the Embassy of India in Kathmandu said the vaccines and medicines were provided in response to a request from the Government of Nepal.

The first consignment of vaccines includes Influenzae Vaccine (3,100 units), Salmonella Vaccine (1,550 units), Meningococcus Vaccine (3,100 units), Haemophilus Influenza Vaccine (4,640 units) and Streptococcus Pneumonia Vaccine (4,640 units).

“This vital contribution from India will help bolster Nepal’s efforts in addressing these inherited blood disorders, which pose significant health challenges to affected individuals and families. It also underscores the strong and enduring partnership between the two nations, particularly in the crucial healthcare sector,” the statement added.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Srivastava said these vaccines would be instrumental in enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia in Nepal.

Likewise, Minister Paudel thanked India for the generous support. He also acknowledged the long-standing collaboration with India and its contributions to Nepal’s healthcare system.