MAHENDRANAGAR: Dengue infections transmitted by mosquito bites are on the rise in the hilly districts of Sudurpaschim Province.

Traditionally more prevalent in Terai districts, diseases like malaria and dengue are increasingly affecting higher altitudes.

Hemraj Joshi, the vector control officer at Sudurpaschim Province Health Directorate, reported a recent surge in dengue cases along with an increase in mosquito populations in these hilly areas.

Since January, 140 cases of dengue have been recorded in the province, with the highest concentration of 47 cases in Doti district.

According to Joshi, the numbers break down as follows: 26 cases in Achham, 24 in Kanchanpur, 15 in Bajura, 10 in Darchula, nine in Kailali, four in Bajhang, three in Dadeldhura, and two in Baitadi.

“With the onset of rain, even the Terai regions face heightened infection risks,” Joshi warned. “The risk escalates further as the weather cools post-rainfall.”

To combat the outbreak, the Sudurpaschim Province government has initiated measures including provision of kits and medications, training for healthcare professionals, establishment of dedicated wards and beds for dengue patients in local hospitals.

Local authorities are also engaged in targeted initiatives such as vaccination drives and larval habitat destruction campaigns to curb mosquito breeding, Joshi added.