Nepal on Alert as COVID-19 Cases Surge in Neighboring Countries

COVID-19 cases are rising again in countries like Thailand, India, Singapore, and Hong Kong. In the past week alone, Thailand reported over 65,000 new cases and eight deaths. Most of these were in Bangkok and nearby provinces. The rise is mainly due to the JN.1 variant, a fast-spreading version of Omicron.

India is also seeing a rise in cases, but most are mild. Two deaths were reported in Mumbai, though both patients had other health problems. Singapore has reported over 14,000 cases, and Hong Kong recorded 30 deaths in the last four weeks. Another new variant, XEC, is also spreading in the region.

In Nepal, only one COVID case has been detected so far this year. Still, health experts warn that the virus could enter the country at any time due to travel from affected areas.

The government has increased checks at airports and border points. Hospitals have been told to stay prepared, and the WHO has been asked for more COVID test kits.

Experts are urging the public to follow basic safety steps like wearing masks, washing hands, and avoiding crowds to reduce the risk.