The Nepal Weekly 
June 25, 2024
This year, when it is expected to rain more it is likelly to increase the cases of dengue infection. The Ministry of Health has urged people to be alert as there is a possibility of surge in dengue cases with the change in weather. In the last 6 months, 1,241 people have been infected with dengue. This is based on the data of confirmed infection after patients visiting health institutions for getting tested.
As water is collected everywhere during monsoons, if not managed properly, there is a possibility of dengue becoming an epidemic. Dengue-causing mosquitoes bloom in accumulated water and from there the larvae are born and spread.
Out of the 72 districts where dengue has spread, the highest number of infected people have been found in Kathmandu. According to the report published by the department, 141 people have been infected in Kathmandu, 112 in Jhapa, 75 in Chitwan, 59 in Makwanpur and 47 in Doti. Similarly, 46 people have been infected in Tanahun, 44 in Sindhupalchowk, 41 in Okhaldhugan, 28 in Rupandehi and 27 in Bhaktapur.
Similarly, 428 people infected in Bagmati province ,285 in Koshi,188 Gandaki, 148 Lumbini, 140 Sudurpachhim, 34 Madhes and 18 in Karnali.
Dengue infection has been detected among those who came to the hospital with symptoms such as high fever, joint, muscle and eye pain, tingling, sores and nausea, the department said. If people see these symptoms, it is recommended to go to the nearest health institution and take the advice of a health worker or doctor and take the medicine as prescribed by doctors. Moreover, it is also advised to avoid mosquito bites to avoid infection. To prevent mosquitoes from spreading, clean holes or containers filled with clean water, and do not allow water to freeze. In addition, the ministry also requested to wear clothes that cover the body and to use mosquito nets or other mosquito repellents while staying at home.
