As of December 21, 2020, Nepal has 252,514 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 1,795 related deaths. In late March, the government enforced a nationwide lockdown until April 27, suspending public transportation, banning all flights and imposing mandatory isolation for returning citizens, particularly migrant workers in India. The lockdown was lifted in July, with international flights resuming in September for travellers with negative COVID-19 test results. Schools, religious institutions and non-essential businesses have generally been allowed to re-open. However, a nationwide mask and social distancing mandate remains in effect, with local orders banning non-essential activities and instituting curfews in high-risk zones. Following protests and a Supreme Court order in November, the government has made COVID-19 testing and treatment free of charge at government hospitals.
Special Dispatch | Nepal’s Challenges in Delivering Education Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic (January 27, 2021)
Nepal Braces for Increase of COVID-19 Cases (May 20, 2020)
Nepal Struggles with Repatriations, Limited Resources (April 22, 2020)
Asia ramps up response to COVID-19 (March 18, 2020)
