Spike in Dengue and Cholera Cases Across the Country

The country is witnessing a worrying rise in the number of dengue and cholera cases, according to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division under the Ministry of Health and Population. As of last Friday, the number of dengue patients has surged to 3,084, with 722 new cases recorded in just the past four days.

Dengue, a mosquito-borne infection, was confirmed in 2,365 people as of August 5, and it has now spread to nearly every district in the country, except for Mustang, Dolpa, Jumla, and Humla, according to Dr. Gokarna Prasad Dahal, Chief of the NTD and Vector Borne Disease Control Section.

Tanahu district has reported the highest number of dengue infections, with 583 cases. Kathmandu follows with 307 cases, Kaski with 166, and Jhapa with 135 confirmed cases. In response to the escalating situation, the Ministry of Health and Population has urged all public and private offices to initiate ‘Larva search and destroy’ campaigns and to maintain essential hygiene and sanitation measures.

The government has also announced that free treatment for dengue patients will be provided at public healthcare facilities.

In addition to the rise in dengue cases, cholera cases are also climbing. So far, 47 cases of cholera have been detected across the country. Dr. Dahal reported that cholera cases have been confirmed in Lalitpur, Kathmandu, Pyuthan, Kailali, and Rupandehi districts. Lalitpur has the highest number of cases, with 34, while Rupandehi has reported only one case.

Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging the public to take preventive measures to control the spread of these diseases.