High-level Committee to intensity COVID-19 tests

KATHMANDU, April 16: The High-Level Coordination Committee for the Prevention and Control of COVID-19 has decided to increase the tests for coronavirus as the cases continue to rise in the country.

“The coronavirus infection is spreading and the meeting has decided to move ahead in an effective manner in the test, identification and treatment. A decision has been taken to mobilize teams of health workers and dedicated institutions  for increasing the number of tests for coronavirus,” Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Narayan Prasad Bidari said.

The meeting has also decided to facilitate the private sector in the import of medical supplies and logistics necessary to prevent and treat the virus and to give continuity to the procurement process through the Ministry of Health and the bodies under it.

“The work of purchasing medicines and medical equipment through the  Government-to Government process will be continued and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Health have already written to the related bodies in China to bring the medical supplies through this process,” Secretary Bidari said.

According to him, talks regarding Nepal’s needs and other requirements are being held through video conference in three stages while talks have also been held regarding the cost.

The meeting, likewise, decided to ease the transport of goods in a safe manner at customs transit points to ensure the smooth supply of essential goods. It also decided to make the security system stringent in a coordinated manner.

Nepal has confirmed 16 cases of the disease so far.

Rapid diagnostic test and swab tests have been carried out so far on more than 15 thousand people.