Kathmandu: With the onset of the monsoon, dengue infections are on the rise across Nepal, prompting public health concerns and calls for collective preventive action.

According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), 1,255 cases of dengue have been confirmed between January 1 and June 8, with infections reported in 72 districts so far. The Kathmandu Valley tops the list, with 132 cases in Kathmandu, followed by Kaski (90), Sunsari (87), and Chitwan (61).

Dr. Gokarna Dahal, Head of the Insect Disease Control Branch at EDCD, emphasized that while complete eradication of dengue and its mosquito vector (Aedes aegypti) is unlikely, effective control and reduction of infections and fatalities are possible. “This requires the coordination of citizens, communities, and both government and non-government agencies,” he stated.

The early arrival of monsoon rains this year, coupled with predictions of heavy rainfall, increases the risk of mosquito breeding due to stagnant water. “We lack comprehensive data on mosquito populations this year, but environmental conditions indicate a high risk of vector proliferation,” Dr. Dahal warned.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection transmitted by the female Aedes aegypti mosquito, which thrives in warm, wet conditions and breeds in stagnant water.

Preventive Measures Recommended by Experts:
-Wear full-sleeved clothing

-Cover or eliminate water-holding containers (buckets, tanks, drums)

-Dispose of unused items like cans, bottles, and plastics that can collect water

-Use mosquito nets while sleeping

-Promptly fix leaks and drainage issues

-Regularly clean and empty water storage units

As Nepal enters the peak dengue season from June to August (Asar to Bhadau), authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and proactive to prevent a large-scale outbreak.