August 16: The dengue infection has been spreading across the nation. The country has recorded a total of 13,291 cases of dengue in 74 districts, according to Epidemiology and Communicable Disease Control Division. Tragically, the disease has claimed the lives of 10 individuals.

Dr. Rudra Prasad Marasini, the director of the division, has identified two key factors contributing to the rapid expansion of dengue: persistent rainfall and inadequate sanitation practices. In response to the escalating daily case counts, he has issued a strong call for vigilance, urging the public to remain cautious and take appropriate measures.

"Given the escalating daily incidents of dengue, it is imperative that we adopt preventive measures, including upholding hygiene practices and safeguarding ourselves against mosquito bites," said Director Marasini.  He went on to highlight, "Dengue cases have a tendency to surge notably during the months of Bhadra and Ashoj."

The first instance of dengue case was recorded in Nepal in 2004. In the year 2022, the country had reported a staggering 54,784 confirmed cases, resulting in 88 fatalities.

Among the affected areas, Sunasari District stands out with the highest dengue case count, tallying up to 7,089 infections. Similarly, Morang has reported 1,591 cases, Dhadhing has 1,202 cases, Jhapa has 896 cases, Kaski has 247 cases, and Dhankuta has 236 cases.

Additionally, Kathmandu has documented 196 cases, Darchula has reported 194 cases, Sankhuwasabha has 156 cases, and Chitwan has confirmed dengue infections in 90 individuals, according to the Epidemiology and Communicable Disease Control Division's data.

The prevalence of dengue infections is highest in Koshi Province, which has seen a staggering 10,182 confirmed cases. Furthermore, Bagmati Province has recorded 1,793 cases, and Gandaki Province has 510 cases.

Similarly,  Sudurpaschim Province has 417 cases, Lumbini Province has 263 cases, Madhes Province has 92 cases, and Karnali Province has reported 36 cases, as per the division’s data.

 In the wake of surge of dengue cases, the division has issued a series of recommendations to the public: sleep under mosquito nets consistently, wear long sleeves and pants while engaged in outdoor activities, apply mosquito repellent, install mesh screens on windows and doors, and take care to prevent the accumulation of water in open containers, such as tires or pots.