Health authorities in Nepal have issued a precautionary advisory as COVID-19 cases show a noticeable uptick across the country in recent weeks.

According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), a total of 249 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in 31 districts between January 1 and July 3, 2025. In the past week alone, 35 cases were reported, with three new infections confirmed in the last 24 hours. One COVID-related fatality has also been recorded during this period.

Bagmati Province currently leads in COVID-19 cases, with 26 reported in the past week and a cumulative total of 192. Other provinces with active cases include Koshi (14), Sudurpaschim (21), and Madhesh (11), while Lumbini, Karnali, and Gandaki have reported fewer infections.

The EDCD’s data shows a noticeable rise in weekly cases starting from epidemiological week 22, peaking at 59 cases in week 26. This trend has prompted the Ministry of Health and Population to enhance surveillance, especially at border checkpoints.

Dr Prakash Budhathoki, spokesperson for the ministry, told state-run news agency RSS that COVID-19 testing through the Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) method is ongoing at 17 designated health desks along Nepal’s borders.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections, the EDCD has advised the public to continue following basic health practices such as wearing masks in crowded areas, washing hands regularly with soap and water or using hand sanitizer, and maintaining personal hygiene. Individuals arriving from areas with reported cases and those experiencing flu-like symptoms have been urged to stay in self-quarantine or isolation.

In addition to COVID-19, the report highlights the continued presence of dengue in the country. A total of 1,677 dengue cases have been recorded this year, with 63 reported in the past week and two in the last 24 hours. Dengue infections have been reported from 73 districts, although no deaths have been confirmed so far.