KATHMANDU: Dengue infection is on the rise across Nepal, with cases now reported in 74 districts. The number of infections has grown significantly following the onset of the monsoon season.
According to Dr. Gokarna Prasad Dahal, Chief of the Insect-Borne Disease Control Section at the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, a total of 3,247 people have been infected with dengue so far. In the past week alone, 211 new cases were reported, and two people have died from the disease.
Dr. Dahal said that 568 cases have been confirmed in Koshi Province, 62 in Madhes Province, 675 in Bagmati Province, 914 in Gandaki Province, 551 in Lumbini Province, 93 in Karnali Province, and 384 in Sudurpaschim Province. He also urged the public to remain cautious, as continued rainfall contributes to an increase in mosquito breeding sites.
Dengue is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant clean water. The larvae develop into adult mosquitoes that transmit the virus by biting infected individuals and spreading it to others.
To help control the outbreak, the government is conducting a nationwide mosquito search-and-destroy campaign every Friday.
In 2024, dengue spread to 76 districts, infecting 41,865 people and resulting in 15 deaths.
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