Schools Closed for Dengue Control in Dharan Sub-Metropolis

In response to the alarming dengue outbreak in Dharan sub-metropolis, Sunsari, all educational institutions in the area have been temporarily closed to combat the spread of the disease effectively. The decision was taken during an executive committee meeting held on Tuesday to engage collective efforts in preventing and controlling the contagion.

Harka Raj Sampang, the Mayor of Dharan sub-metropolis, informed that the closure of schools was aimed at running a dengue control campaign, utilizing the time usually dedicated to teaching and learning activities. The sub-metropolis is now urging teachers and students to actively participate in the campaign during their holidays.

Furthermore, the meeting has also called upon social organizations, Tole development organizations, and local communities to join hands with teachers and students in the campaign within their respective wards.

Matrika Bhattarai, Chief Administrative Officer of Dharan sub-metropolis, emphasized that the closure of schools would facilitate an effective search-and-destroy operation of mosquito larvae (Aedes aegypti) responsible for dengue transmission.

Naresh Kumar Iwaram, Chairperson of Dharan-15, stated that the decision to mobilize the general public was driven by the understanding that controlling the dengue outbreak required the complete eradication of dengue-transmitting mosquito larvae and eggs.

Since the beginning of June, the dengue virus has claimed the lives of eight people in Dharan, including a young girl. The surge in cases has led to difficulties for dengue-infected patients in finding available beds in health facilities, including private clinics and the BP Koirala Institute for Health Sciences.

Umesh Mehata, Chief of the sub-metropolis health section, reported that out of 4,218 individuals examined, 2,495 have tested positive for dengue, and the numbers continue to rise.

Authorities are calling for immediate and widespread action to combat the dengue outbreak and protect the health and well-being of the residents in Dharan sub-metropolis. The closure of schools aims to mobilize resources and efforts towards the effective eradication of dengue-transmitting mosquitoes and the containment of the disease.