KATHMANDU: Pashi Sherpa of Salleri, Solukhumbu, is worried about the rising risk of mosquito-borne diseases in the area, where mosquitoes were previously uncommon. The situation has changed as mosquitoes have begun to enter this mountainous district in Koshi Province, possibly via motor vehicles, and have adapted to the local temperature.

Locals have observed a significant increase in mosquito numbers, with summer temperatures now reaching 25-28 degrees Celsius and evening temperatures between 22-23 degrees Celsius. This rise in temperature has created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, affecting Salleri and neighboring areas like Sotang, Nechasalyan, and Mapya Dudhkoshi.

In response to the increasing mosquito presence, residents have started using mosquito nets and repellents. Mosquitoes have even been reported in Kharkhola, a settlement below Lukla. Climate change expert Rajan Thapa attributes the problem to rising temperatures, which are also impacting local life and agriculture, and contributing to a higher incidence of dengue fever.

The Health Office Solukhumbu has reported 30 dengue cases in the district over the past month, primarily in Sotang Rural Municipality. Of the affected, 20 are male and 10 are female, with most cases contracted locally rather than through recent travel. The health office has launched a 'mosquito larva search and destroy' campaign and is actively promoting dengue prevention measures.