Kathmandu: Dengue fever cases are experiencing a steep surge across the nation. As per the latest data from the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, the disease has now spread to 74 districts, resulting in a total of 10,726 diagnosed cases. Tragically, this outbreak has led to seven fatalities so far.

Dr. Rudra Prasad Marasini, the Director of the Division, pointed out that the combination of monsoon rains and insufficient sanitation practices has contributed to the rapid escalation of the disease. If this current trend persists, health experts anticipate the infection to reach its zenith during the months of August and September. To put this into perspective, the year 2022 recorded 54,784 cases and 88 fatalities due to dengue.

Sunsari district stands out as the most heavily affected among all the districts, reporting a staggering 6,041 cases. The responsible mosquitoes, namely Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, breed in collections of clean water.

Among the provinces, the Koshi province has witnessed the highest infection rates, with 8,109 cases. This is followed by Bagmati with 1,453 cases, Gandaki with 471, Sudurpaschim with 393, Lumbini with 215, the Madhesh with 57, and Karnali with 28 cases.

Dengue first made its appearance in Nepal in 2004, marking the beginning of its presence in the country's health landscape. In response to this concerning situation, the government is urging citizens to adopt preventive measures. These measures include using mosquito nets at night, wearing full-sleeved clothing during outdoor activities, and installing wire mesh doors and windows to deter mosquitoes.

Furthermore, the government recommends the use of mosquito repellent coils, liquids, or ointments, along with proper management of domestic animals and the elimination of standing water puddles, which are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.