Kanchanpur: Dengue fever, which was previously considered a seasonal disease confined to the summer and rainy months, is now emerging as a year-round health threat in Nepal’s Sudurpaschim (FarWest) Province. Experts attribute this alarming shift to the impacts of climate change—rising temperatures, irregular rainfall patterns, and extended mosquito breeding seasons.

According to Hemraj Joshi, Information Officer at the Far West Provincial Health Emergency Operations Center, the environmental changes have increased the ability of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes—the primary carriers of dengue—to survive and transmit the virus throughout the year. “In the past, dengue cases were largely seasonal. But now, even winter months are reporting infections due to rising temperatures and favorable mosquito habitats,” said Joshi.

Between January and June 2025, the province recorded 167 dengue cases. The highest number was reported in Dadeldhura (34 cases), followed by Kailali (31), Kanchanpur (29), Doti (25), Achham (24), Bajhang (11), Bajura (11), and Darchula (2). Baitadi was the only district that reported no cases during this period.

Health officials warn that unmanaged stagnant water and plastic waste are contributing to the increase in mosquito breeding sites. Joshi emphasized the need to treat dengue as a year-round threat and called for a continuous, climate-sensitive sanitation strategy. “We must act beyond seasonal cleanup drives and ensure regular destruction of mosquito breeding sites and waste management,” he said.

As the monsoon begins, the risk of infection is expected to rise further. Chief of the Health Branch at Shuklaphanta Municipality, Paramananda Bhatta, stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns and sanitation efforts. He urged people to wear long-sleeved clothing during mosquito-prone hours, use mosquito nets, and regularly empty water containers, bins, and tires to prevent mosquito breeding.

Health workers are also encouraging schools to run dengue awareness programs and educate students on preventive measures, reinforcing that community-wide vigilance is essential to combat the growing dengue threat in the region.