KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population has initiated a ‘mosquito search and destroy’ campaign to address the rising dengue cases in Nepal. Spokesperson Prakash Budhathoki announced that all government and non-government organizations, as well as hospitals, are urged to maintain cleanliness in and around their premises every Friday to help combat the spread of dengue.

The Ministry has also called for vigilance and awareness programs about dengue in various offices. Additionally, it has promised to cover the medical expenses for dengue patients treated in government hospitals and has instructed these hospitals to establish a 'dengue desk' and appoint a contact person for better management of cases.

Budhathoki emphasized the need for cooperation from provincial and local governments, noting that controlling dengue requires efforts beyond just the health sector. This year, there have been 2,365 reported dengue cases across 73 districts, with one death recorded so far.