HEALTH: The Ministry of Health and Population has started early preparations to prevent and control epidemics ahead of the upcoming monsoon-related disasters.

Health Minister Pradip Paudel convened a meeting to ensure timely and effective preventive measures, emphasizing the need to identify potential health risks before the onset of the rainy season when infectious diseases are more likely to spread.

Minister Paudel urged health officials to move away from the tradition of responding only after disasters occur and pledged full support to control epidemics proactively.

Following the meeting, health authorities involved in disaster response and epidemic control have begun preparatory work.

The Department of Health Services, through the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, will identify potential epidemic-prone areas and ensure proper sanitation and access to clean water.

The National Health Education, Information, and Communication Center will disseminate awareness materials down to the local level to promote clean water use.

According to Ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, the Epidemiology Division will conduct virtual meetings with rapid response teams from all local governments to gather information and strengthen preparedness.

The division will also update the list of trained personnel across all seven provinces and deploy them as needed for disaster management.

Coordination with the National Emergency Operation Center and provincial health emergency centers will be intensified to enhance preparedness and response.

In line with Minister Paudel’s commitment, the Ministry has also decided to prepare amendments to the Infectious Disease Act, 2020 within a week to align with changing circumstances and needs.