Both public and private sectors provide health care services in Nepal though the services may not be up to mark of the international standards. In comparison to other south Asian countries, occurrence of diseases is significantly higher in Nepal’s rural areas. A certain section of the population, especially those living in rural poverty are at high risks of infection and death associated with communicable diseases or malnutrition. Unfortunately health care services, nutrition, sanitation, and hygiene in the country are not of superior quality. On top, the services fail to reach a large proportion of the country’s population, mostly in rural areas. The life expectancy of an average Nepalese is 68 years.
The major leading causes of illness and death in Nepal are Diabetes, neo-natal disorders, stroke, ischemic heart disease, road injury, COPD, diarrheal disease, and lower respiratory infection.
Nepal has made a significant progress in improving health of women and children in recent times. The national immunization program is a priority 1 program (P1) in Nepal and it has been universally established and successfully implemented. Malnutrition has remained a serious complication to child survival in Nepal. Shockingly, mental health is one of the least focused healthcare sectors in Nepal in terms of consciousness and cure.
Although immunizations are not required while traveling to Nepal as tourists, we would suggest certain vaccinations or medications as preventive measures, depending on what time of the year you will be traveling. If you are traveling to Nepal from a country infected with Yellow Fever, it is required that you have a certificate of fitness. We encourage travelers to stay updated on the routine immunizations before entering Nepal.
We highly recommend the Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies, Cholera, Malaria, Dengue and Japanese Encephalitis vaccine to travelers visiting Nepal. Although Kathmandu and other high altitude locations in the country are quite high for the species of mosquito transmitting malaria, it is always good to take the preventive action against the disease, at least while traveling to the lowlands and the tropical forested areas.
For full details on the medication or vaccination requirements, we suggest that you consult with your doctor when you plan for a trip to Nepal. Also visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for detailed information regarding vaccination.
