Health ministry warns cautions against new COVID-19 variant detected in South Africa

KATHMANDU, November 28: The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) has warned the general public to remain cautious against the new variant of COVID-19 detected in South Africa.

“The variant classified as B 1.1.529 could spread to Nepal as well. So people visiting Nepal through South Africa should compulsorily stay in a week-long quarantine facility,” said the Ministry. 

“Nepal is at risk when a virus variant is reported anywhere across the globe,” said Joint Secretary at the Ministry, Dr Samir Kumar Adhikari. “So caution is necessary,” he added.

The World Health Organisation has categorized the new variant as ‘the variant of concern'. "Following this, we have stepped up vigil on people visiting Nepal through South Africa," he said. 

So far, the new variant has not been detected in Nepal. rss