KATHMANDU: The incidence of dengue infection has expanded to encompass 71 districts across Nepal. Initially reported in 57 districts as of May 23, the spread of dengue has now reached 71 districts, according to Dr. Gokarna Prasad Dahal from the Ministry of Health and Population's Epidemiology and Disease Control Division. So far, a total of 1,130 individuals have been afflicted with the mosquito-borne illness across these districts.

Comparatively, last year witnessed 51,143 reported dengue cases across all 77 districts of Nepal. Presently, Kathmandu has recorded 114 cases, while Bhaktapur and Lalitpur have reported 27 and 18 cases, respectively. Dengue is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, facilitating person-to-person transmission of the virus.

The symptoms of dengue infection include high fever, headaches, sore eyeballs, body aches, knee joint pain, and groin pain. To mitigate the risk of mosquito bites and potential dengue infection, the Health Ministry has issued a public appeal for preventive measures. These precautions include using insect repellents, hanging nets over windows and doors, wearing long sleeves, and using mosquito nets.

Efforts to curb the spread of dengue emphasize community-wide engagement in mosquito control and prevention strategies. By raising awareness about the risks associated with dengue and promoting proactive measures to minimize exposure to mosquito bites, health authorities aim to mitigate the impact of the ongoing outbreak across Nepal.