Over 13,000 people infected with dengue across the country

Published On: August 15, 2023 07:30 PM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, Aug 15: Cases of dengue infection have been increasing across the country each day.

According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, 13,292 people have fallen ill due to the spread of dengue infection in 74 districts of Nepal.

So far, 10 people have lost their lives due to dengue infection. Dr Rudra Prasad Marasini, director of the division, said that dengue infection is increasing due to continuous rainfall and lack of attention to sanitation. He emphasized the need for vigilance as the number of cases continues to rise.

"Since dengue infections are increasing daily, we should be careful to avoid mosquito bites by maintaining cleanliness," Dr Marasini said, "The risk of dengue infection is particularly high in August and October."

Dengue was first reported in Nepal in 2004. In 2022, there were 54,784 reported cases of dengue infection, resulting in 88 deaths.

Sunsari reports 7,000 dengue cases

Sunsari district has recorded the highest number of dengue cases. The division confirmed that 7,089 people in Sunsari have been affected by dengue.

Likewise, the division confirmed 1,591 cases in Morang, 1,202 in Dhading, 896 in Jhapa, 247 in Kaski, 236 in Dhankuta, 196 in Kathmandu, 194 in Darchula, 156 in Sankhuwasabha, and 90 in Chitwan.

Highest infection in Koshi Province

The Koshi Province has reported the highest incidence of dengue infections, with 10,182 reported cases.

Similarly, 1,793 cases have been confirmed in Bagmati Province, 510 in Gandaki, 417 in Sudurpaschim, 263 in Lumbini, 92 in Madhesh, and 36 in Karnali Province.

The Ministry of Health and Population has urged the public to sleep under mosquito nets, wear long-sleeve clothing when working outdoors, and install nets on windows and doors to prevent the entry of mosquitos. The ministry also advised the use of mosquito-repellent incense or ointments, maintaining proper conditions for domestic animals, and preventing water from stagnating in containers around residential areas.