19 thousand dengue cases reported throughout country

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 16: Dengue is spreading rapidly across Nepal, with the number of infected individuals reaching 19,599, according to the latest data from the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD). So far,  nine deaths have been reported, and the disease has spread to 76 districts.

Kathmandu has recorded the highest number of cases, with 3,103 infections, followed by Kaski (2,847 cases),  Tanahu (2,107 cases), and Parbat (1,562 cases). Other districts reporting significant numbers include Chitwan (971 cases), Lalitpur (827 cases),  Gorkha (588 cases), Baglung (610 cases),  Bhaktapur (355 cases), and Syangja (335 cases).

Dr. Sher Bahadur Pun, Research Unit Coordinator at the Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, Teku, warned that the risk of dengue rises significantly during the post-monsoon season. He noted that the number of infections has been increasing rapidly following the Dashain festival, suggesting that the virus is spreading at the community level.

Between April 14, 2023, and January 14, 2024, more than 52,000 people were confirmed to have contracted dengue across Nepal, with 20 fatalities reported during that period. The current surge indicates a continued public health challenge for the country.