August 2: Sudurpaschim Province, as of today, has reported a significant surge in dengue fever cases, surpassing 1,600 since 2022. The Health Directorate of Sudurpaschim Province disclosed that a total of 1,614 individuals have been confirmed to have contracted dengue in the province since 2022.

 In the year 2023, the province has recorded 325 cases with no reported fatalities, according to Hemraj Joshi, the focal person for vector-borne diseases at the Directorate.

Among the confirmed cases, Darchula leads with 119 cases, followed by 57 in Kanchanpur, 31 in Achham, 24 in Kailali, six in Bajhang, five each in Baitadi and Doti, four in Bajura, and two in Dadeldhura.

The dengue, which was previously concentrated in Terai districts, has now extended to hilly regions as well due to rising temperatures prompting mosquitoes to ascend.

Common symptoms of dengue include high fever, headaches, eye pain, backache, joint and leg discomfort. In severe cases, patients may exhibit fatigue, bleeding, vomiting, breathing problems, intense abdominal pain, and swelling in the abdomen and legs, the Directorate highlighted.

The risk of dengue remains heightened during the summer and monsoon seasons, persisting until mid-October. (RSS)