Kathmandu, May 27: With the onset of the monsoon season approaching, the Ministry of Health and Population has begun preparations to prevent and control potential epidemics and health disasters that may arise during the rainy season.

Health and Population Minister Pradeep Poudel held a preparatory meeting with officials focused on epidemic response and disaster management, emphasizing the need for timely and effective readiness.

Minister Poudel assured that health officials are ready to provide full support to prevent outbreaks and avoid situations from escalating out of control.

Key steps outlined include:

• The Epidemiology and Disease Control Division will identify potential epidemic-prone areas and coordinate sanitation and clean water management through the Department of Health Services.
• The National Health Education Information and Communication Center will launch public awareness efforts at the local level, focusing on safe water usage.
• Virtual meetings will be held with local rapid response groups across the country to gather data and boost preparedness, according to Ministry Spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki.
• A database of trained personnel for health disaster response will be updated for all seven provinces, with deployment planned as necessary.
• The Ministry will also work in collaboration with the National Emergency Operation Center and Provincial Health Emergency Operation Centres to coordinate preparedness and response activities.

Additionally, the meeting resolved that the Department of Health Services will submit a proposal within a week to revise the Infectious Diseases Act 2020, aiming to adapt it to current public health challenges.