288 dengue cases reported in Sudurpaschim in eight months

Dhangadhi: A total of 288 dengue cases have been reported in Sudurpaschim Province over the past eight months, according to the Health Directorate, Dipayal.

Kailali recorded the highest number of infections with 65 cases, followed by 41 in Achham and 32 in Kanchanpur. Similarly, 18 cases were reported in Bajura, four in Darchula, and 88 collectively in Dadeldhura, Doti, Bajhang, and Baitadi.

Vector Control Officer Hemraj Joshi cautioned that dengue transmission typically rises between Asar and Kartik, urging the public to remain vigilant. He stressed the importance of preventing water stagnation around homes, noting that female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which transmit dengue, breed in containers and places where water collects, such as flower pots, discarded tires, and empty drums. “Identifying and destroying mosquito larvae at these sites is crucial to controlling the disease,” Joshi said.

Two years ago, three people died from dengue in the Far West. Joshi emphasized the need for a coordinated “Search and Destroy Mosquito Larvae” campaign across municipalities to curb mosquito breeding. “Every local government has a vital role in launching such campaigns based on the infection situation in their area. Some municipalities have already started these efforts this year,” he added.

Government hospitals continue to provide free treatment for dengue patients. Health workers, however, point out that lack of awareness among citizens remains a major challenge in preventing the spread of the disease, despite mosquito bite prevention being one of the most effective measures.