Kathmandu, Sept 30: In recent times, Kathmandu Metropolitan City has witnessed a surge in Dengue fever cases, raising alarm bells for public health officials. The Health Department reports an increasing number of Dengue patients in 32 wards of the metropolitan city over the past week, signifying a growing health crisis.

Ram Prasad Paudel, the Chief of the Health Service Department in Kathmandu, has expressed his concerns about the escalating Dengue outbreak. He mentioned that just a year ago, during the same period, there were virtually no Dengue patients reported in the city. However, the situation has taken a drastic turn with a rising number of cases.

Paudel stated, “Last year, there were hardly any Dengue patients reported until the first week of Ashar (mid-June). But now, the patients are increasing significantly. The risk will persist until at least Kartik 15 (late October), so it is essential for everyone to remain vigilant.”

Until recently, all wards in Kathmandu had remained Dengue-free. However, according to the latest data from the Health Department, there are now 35 confirmed cases across various wards. Paudel added that proactive measures, including larvicide spraying in all wards, had been taken earlier this year to control the outbreak, but the recent surge in cases is a cause for concern.

Paudel emphasized the importance of community awareness and preventive measures to combat Dengue. He urged residents to use mosquito nets, install window screens, sleep under mosquito nets, and be vigilant at all times. Additionally, the city has launched a campaign to search for and destroy mosquito larvae in water bodies every Wednesday morning from 8 AM to 10 AM.

To further control the outbreak, Paudel encouraged residents to report cases promptly to the city police, as well as engage in awareness campaigns and participate in community cleanup efforts. Rapid response teams have also been mobilized to address the issue.

Dengue, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, manifests with symptoms such as high fever, severe joint pain, eye pain, rash, bleeding, and muscle pain. It is essential for the public to be aware of these symptoms and seek medical attention promptly.

Dengue has been a concern in Nepal for nearly two decades. In 2022, it was reported that 54,678 people were diagnosed with Dengue, and 88 lives were lost due to the disease.

In conclusion, the recent surge in Dengue cases in Kathmandu is a serious public health concern. It is crucial for residents to take preventive measures and report cases promptly to combat this outbreak effectively. Community awareness, proactive efforts, and cooperation with health authorities are essential to control the spread of Dengue in the city.