The COVID-19 infection has emerged as a major concern yet again with the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) confirming on Monday the detection of its new variant in Nepal. The health ministry confirmed that a sub-variant of Omicron virus, 'JN.1' has been detected among 7 out of 16 samples collected for PCR and antigen tests. This is the first time this new sub-variant of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Nepal. Although the number of confirmed cases may seem small, it is important to remember that this can spread quickly. The situation can easily spiral out of control if we become complacent and do not follow the recommended health protocols. This requires all of us to remain vigilant and take immediate action to prevent the virus from spreading further. 

The new cases of COVID-19 have been detected mainly among those returning home from India, where these cases have been already detected. Therefore, the government needs to take strict measures to ensure that everyone entering the country is tested and isolated until they test negative. The health ministry has asked all health desks set up at the border points with India and other health facilities to step up necessary screening and remain vigilant. The ministry has further urged all health institutions across the country to stay prepared for the management of the treatment of COVID-19 infected patients in case the infection spreads quickly. This is a step in the right direction. It is also equally important to urge the public, especially those elderly and people with underlying health conditions, to take booster doses to keep themselves safe from possible infection. 

While these measures on the part of the government are important, individuals should also take responsibility for their own health and follow the recommended health protocols, such as wearing masks, washing hands frequently, and maintaining social distance. It is yet to be seen how fatal is the new variant of COVID-19 confirmed in Nepal. But the detection of this variant for the first time in Nepal makes it necessary for us to take adequate precautions such as avoiding large gatherings and unnecessary travel to reduce the risk of infection. This  should serve as a wake-up call to everyone. We all need to remain vigilant and continue to follow health protocols to keep ourselves and our communities safe. As a newspaper, we urge everyone to take the pandemic seriously and do their part in preventing its spread. While the government has a critical role to play such as ensuring that adequate measures are put in place to prevent the spread of the virus, including regular testing at border crossings, contact tracing, and providing necessary resources to health facilities, all individuals should fulfill their duty as responsible citizens to contain further spread of this virus.

 
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