Pallav Bhusal Nepal, renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage, is currently confronting a public health menace: cholera. The 24 reported cases of cholera in 2024 serve as a stark reminder of our vulnerability to this deadly disease. Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, is highly infectious and can lead to severe dehydration and death if not treated promptly.
This outbreak necessitates immediate and concerted efforts from all sectors to prevent a full-blown epidemic. The dangers of cholera are both immediate and severe. Cholera spreads through contaminated water and food, making it a particular threat in areas with inadequate sanitation and poor access to clean drinking water conditions that are all too common in many parts of Nepal.
The disease manifests rapidly, with symptoms ranging from mild diarrhoea to severe dehydration, which can kill within hours if untreated. The swiftness with which cholera can spread and the severity of its symptoms underscore the urgent need for effective prevention and control measures. Nepal must take decisive steps to address the underlying causes of cholera and prevent further cases.
First and foremost, improving access to clean water is essential. The government should prioritise infrastructure projects that provide safe drinking water to all communities, especially in rural and underserved areas. This could involve drilling new wells, maintaining and upgrading existing water systems, and ensuring that water sources .