Hospitals told to stay alert as COVID cases rise

KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population has instructed hospitals to be prepared as the number of COVID-infected people rises.

In recent days, patients contracting Omicron XBB 1.16, the new variant of the coronavirus, are being found in Nepal. Chuman Lal Das, Director of the Epidemiology and Communicable Disease Control Division of the Ministry said that hospitals have been instructed to be on alert as the variant that has appeared now is contagious.

“There is a possibility that the new variant will infect many people,” he said. “That is why we have instructed all hospitals to be on alert.”

The ministry has instructed Bir Hospital, Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, TU Teaching Hospital, Patan Institute of Health Sciences, Civil Service Hospital, Armed Police Force Hospital, Nepal Police Hospital, and other hospitals to remain vigilant.

According to the ministry, 106 new cases were recorded across the country on Wednesday.