For the past one week, the COVID-19 cases have been increasing with 1,921 new cases and 23 deaths on average, on a daily basis.

The Ministry of Health and Population issued a warning about the possibility of a third wave of COVID-19 and a spike in the infection rate after the prohibitory order was relaxed.

According to Ganesh Shreevastav, Health Education Officer and Assistant Information Officer at the MoHP, the crowds in markets and the movement of people have increased the possibility of a third wave of the coronavirus pandemic. He said that the third wave is the presumption made by the ministry as the country has witnessed a rise in new cases of late.

“The cases are not declining, also the crowds of people in the market are seen involved in activities without maintaining the health safety protocols,” he said, “This could lead to the third wave of COVID-19.”

The Health Ministry’s Assistant Information Officer said, “The authorities including the COVID-19 Crisis Management Centre and the Council of Ministers have already been informed about the possibility of the third wave of COVID-19. It is in their hand whether to intensify the lockdown in order to control the spread of the coronavirus.” “We can only give advice on the situation”, Shreevastav told NepalNews.

While it is not possible to shut down the economy for a long period, it is important that everyone treat the situation with seriousness and ensure safety measures.

Shreevastav also said, it is difficult to point out what exactly is responsible for the recent surge in virus. “Everybody should use mask, sanitiser and maintain physical distancing. Vaccination is the next step,” he said.