Public Health Risk and Outbreaks 2026

The Ministry of Health and Population clarified there are no confirmed hantavirus infections in Nepal, with the Andes virus not commonly found in local rodents. Public advised on precautionary measures while the risk of person-to-person transmission remains very low except in close contact situations.

Nepal's Epidemiology and Disease Control Division stated the hantavirus infection risk remains very low with no detected domestic cases amid a global outbreak linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship. Enhanced surveillance measures have been implemented at entry points to prevent infection.

An outbreak of Andes strain hantavirus on the MV Hondius cruise ship caused at least three deaths and several infections, leading to global health alerts. Nepal remains at occasional risk due to rodent presence but has no confirmed local hantavirus outbreak.

Dengue cases were reported in 66 districts of Nepal including mountainous areas such as Humla in Karnali Province, occurring before monsoon and in cold temperatures. This spread highlights dengue becoming endemic with all four serotypes present and transmission continuing year-round, including winter months.

A heatwave in southern Nepal increased dehydration risk with symptoms including dry throat, dizziness, and dark yellow urine. Health experts advised consuming electrolyte-rich fluids like oral rehydration salts to prevent severe health issues.

The Ministry of Health and Population ordered all government hospitals in Nepal to keep outpatient departments operational on the April 18 public holiday to maintain uninterrupted healthcare services. The Nepal Medical Association opposed the directive, citing concerns for health workers' rights to holidays.

Sudurpashchim Province reported 387 confirmed malaria cases, including 14 local infections, challenging Nepal's malaria elimination goal by 2030. The rise is linked to imported infections, open borders with India, and climate-driven mosquito habitat expansion.

Nepal's Safe Motherhood Programme budget was reduced by 20% for fiscal year 2026–27, threatening the operation of over 2,700 birthing centres and risking skilled birth attendant jobs. The programme had previously contributed to a 70% reduction in maternal and child mortality over two decades.