Solukhumbu: Dengue cases are emerging in Solukhumbu, a mountainous district in the Koshi Province, even among individuals with no recent travel history, raising concerns among local residents. Pashi Sherpa of Salleri, the district headquarters, expressed her growing worry over the increasing risk of mosquito-borne diseases in an area previously thought to be free of such dangers.

The local population has observed a noticeable rise in the mosquito population in Salleri, and some speculate that the insects may have entered the district through motor vehicles and adapted to the changing climate. Summer temperatures in Salleri have reportedly become hotter, with less frequent snowfall in winter.

According to the Field Office of Hydrology and Meteorology in Salleri, current temperatures range from 25-28 degrees Celsius during the day and 22-23 degrees Celsius in the morning and evening, creating favorable conditions for mosquito breeding.

The issue extends beyond Salleri, affecting other areas like Sotang, Nechasalyan, and Mapya Dudhkoshi. Locals have started using mosquito nets and repellents to protect themselves. Ram Bahadur Thapa noted that mosquitoes are now found as far up as Kharkhola, a settlement below Lukla.

Rajan Thapa, who is knowledgeable about climate change, pointed out that rising temperatures are negatively impacting both the local population and agriculture, contributing to the increased incidence of dengue fever.

The Health Office Solukhumbu has reported 30 dengue cases in the past month, with 27 cases from Sotang rural municipality. The pandemic focal person, Ashok Siwakoti, highlighted that most of the infected individuals, including 19 males and 8 females, had no travel history, indicating local transmission.

In response, the health office has launched a 'mosquito larva search and destroy' campaign and is working to raise awareness about dengue prevention.