Dengue: Over 19,500 infected, 9 fatalities reported nationwide

KATHMANDU: Dengue infection is spreading rapidly across the country.

According to the latest data from the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), the number of dengue-infected individuals has reached 19,599.

So far, nine people have lost their lives due to dengue infection.

The division has reported that dengue has spread to 76 districts of the country.

The highest number of infections has been reported in Kathmandu, where 3,103 people have been affected by the disease. Similarly, 2,847 cases have been recorded in Kaski.

In Tanahun, 2,107 individuals have been infected, while Parbat has recorded 1,562 cases.

Chitwan has seen 971 cases, Lalitpur 827, Gorkha 588, Baglung 610, Bhaktapur 355, and Syangja 335 confirmed cases, according to the division.

Dr. Sher Bahadur Pun, coordinator of the research unit at Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, Teku, and an infectious disease specialist, stated, “The risk of dengue tends to increase after the onset of the post-monsoon season. Following Dashain, the number of dengue patients coming to the hospital has increased, indicating that the infection is spreading in the community.”

By the end of Poush 2080, nearly 52,000 people across the country had been confirmed to be infected with dengue, resulting in 20 deaths.

Dengue is a vector-borne disease transmitted through the bite of an infected female Aedes aegypti mosquito.

To prevent mosquito bites, it is advised to wear clothing that covers the entire body, fill in puddles and open drains, repair any leaks in water pipes or sewers immediately, store empty containers upside down, thoroughly clean water tanks, and use mosquito nets while sleeping.

The primary method of preventing dengue is to avoid mosquito bites. Dr. Pun emphasized, “Using a mosquito net is effective. If severe symptoms appear, it is important to seek medical attention.”