KATHMANDU: The incidence of dengue fever is experiencing a significant surge across the nation.

As per the latest data from the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, this ailment has now spread to 74 districts, resulting in a reported 10,726 diagnosed cases.

The disease has claimed seven lives thus far.

Dr. Rudra Prasad Marasini, the Director of the Division, pointed out that the combination of monsoon rains and inadequate sanitation practices has fueled the increase in dengue cases.

Should the current trend persist, experts anticipate that the infection will peak during the months of August and September.

In 2022, the country bore witness to 54,784 cases of dengue, which led to 88 fatalities.

Among the districts grappling with this issue, Sunsari tops the list with a staggering 6,041 reported cases.

The disease is primarily transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, breeding in stagnant water accumulations.

Within the provinces, Koshi has reported the highest infection rates, with a concerning 8,109 cases.

This is followed by 1,453 cases in Bagmati, 471 in Gandaki, 393 in Sudurpaschim, 215 in Lumbini, 57 in the Madhesh region, and 28 in Karnali.

Nepal first encountered dengue in 2004. In an effort to combat its spread, the government is urging citizens to use bed nets at night, wear protective full-sleeve clothing during outdoor activities, and install wire mesh on doors and windows to prevent mosquito entry.

Additionally, the use of mosquito repellent coils, liquids, or ointments is strongly recommended, along with effective management of domesticated animals and the elimination of standing water puddles.