Kathmandu: The number of dengue cases is on the rise in the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) area, causing concerns among health authorities. The KMC Department of Health reports a consistent increase in dengue cases across all 32 wards of Kathmandu over the past week.

Ram Prasad Poudel, Chief of the Department, noted that although dengue cases were relatively low until the third week of September compared to the same period last year, there has been a recent surge in infections. Despite efforts by the KMC, including larvicide spraying since June, the contagion has not been effectively brought under control.

"Larvicide spraying was conducted in water-filled areas to curb the dengue outbreak since the third week of June. However, cases continue to be detected. Dengue can persist until November 1, so everyone should remain vigilant against dengue infection during this period," cautioned Poudel.

Until the third week of September, all wards of the metropolis were reported to be infection-free. According to KMC data, there are currently 35 confirmed cases of dengue in KMC. Poudel highlighted that due to early preparedness this year, the number of dengue cases has been lower compared to the previous year.

To address the situation, KMC has been conducting larva search and destroy campaigns in all wards every Wednesday. Despite these efforts, health authorities remain vigilant, considering the potential risks associated with dengue infections. In 2022, dengue claimed the lives of 88 individuals in Nepal, with a total of 54,078 reported cases of infection.