KATHMANDU, April 4: In the wake of the rising temperature, the dengue infection has also increased.

Household collection of water is on the rise, which however turns a haven for mosquitoes if not managed well.

Dr Gokarna Prasad Dahal at the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division under the health ministry shared that as the monsoon season is in sight, cases of dengue are also increasing. Massive awareness is essential against dengue.

"The mosquitoes causing dengue lay eggs on the standing water stored at home or outside, where the larvae develop, become mosquitoes and spread to bite people," Dr Dahal said, adding that the spots at risk in terms of mosquito presence should be identified and a campaign should be launched to destroy larvae and mosquitoes.

He further said that local governments were directed to take action and make people aware of necessary precautions.

"A total of 33 local units at risk of dengue since January were written directing them to launch a 'search and destroy campaign' along with public awareness.

Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species of mosquitoes bite people and spread dengue. These species lay eggs on clean water, which turn into larvae. The adult larvae bite people, resulting in high fever, headache, severe pain of eyeballs, joints, limbs, and general body pain.

Those suffering these symptoms are urged to immediately consult doctors. The use of mosquito nets and full sleeve clothes are also suggested to avoid the mosquitoes.

The standing water must not be left unattended but managed with cover or removal while the use of mosquito repellent ointment can be a precaution, according to Dr Dahal.

Nepal had first traced dengue in 2004. Although there were no cases of dengue in 2005, it continued since 2006.

In 2023 alone, some 51,143 people suffered from dengue in Nepal.

 
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