World Health Organization

Experts are urging the government to increase cigarette excise duty by 55% in the upcoming 2026/27 budget, alongside annual tax increases above inflation for all tobacco products. This measure is projected to boost government revenue by Rs. 11-12 billion and significantly reduce tobacco consumption. They also recommended simplifying the current 5-tier tax structure towards a uniform specific excise tax system.

The Nepal Medical Association (NMA) is holding its 30th national medical conference in Chitwan on May 30-31, focusing on strengthening primary healthcare through innovation. The event will feature participation from the World Health Organization (WHO) and experts from India and China, addressing themes of accessible, affordable, and equitable healthcare.

Nepal's Health Minister Nisha Mehta met with World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in Geneva during the 79th World Health Assembly. The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation and WHO's continued support for Nepal's health sector. Minister Mehta described the meeting as highly productive and fruitful.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain, has resulted in over 80 deaths and hundreds of suspected cases, with concerns of regional spread to Uganda. The WHO stated that while the situation is serious and requires international coordination, it does not yet meet the criteria for a pandemic emergency.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The WHO stated that while the outbreak does not meet the criteria for a global pandemic, it poses a significant risk of local and regional spread. The current strain is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, for which there are no approved drugs or vaccines.

During an urgent session of the House of Representatives, Members of Parliament (MPs) called the government's attention to critical issues including healthcare access, disaster management, landless people's problems, and road safety. MPs highlighted shortages of essential medicines at Bhim Hospital, the need for timely disaster recovery, and concerns about potential Ebola virus risks.

Lawmakers in the House of Representatives have called on the government to address critical issues including the implementation of healthcare services, disaster management, squatter rehabilitation, and road safety. Concerns were raised about shortages of essential medical supplies at Bhim Hospital and the potential threat of Ebola virus infection, prompting calls for precautionary measures.

Tobacco use is a leading cause of death and disease in Nepal, contributing to nearly 39,200 deaths annually and costing the nation an estimated Rs. 45 billion each year in healthcare expenditures and productivity losses. This escalating health crisis is placing significant pressure on Nepal's national health insurance program, threatening its long-term sustainability due to increased claims for tobacco-related chronic conditions.