KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 15

Health authorities have sounded the alarm over simultaneous outbreaks of dengue fever and Seasonal Hyper Acute Pan-uveitis (Shapu) across Gandaki Province, warning that the risk will remain high through November.

According to the Provincial Health Ministry, 964 dengue cases have been confirmed since mid-December across all 11 districts.

Kaski tops the list with 503 infections, while Mustang and Manang each report one case.

Dengue is transmitted by the daytime-biting Aedes aegypti mosquito.

Last year Pokhara recorded more than 8,600 cases and three deaths. Officials urge residents to destroy standing water, avoid self-medication, and seek immediate care if symptoms such as persistent vomiting or bleeding appear.

Shapu, a rare eye disease that can cause blindness within 48–72 hours if untreated, surfaced last week. The Himalayan Eye Hospital in Pokhara has treated five patients from Kaski, Baglung, and Lamjung; three remain under care and three have required surgery.

According to the doctors, the infection is linked mainly to contact with white moths and advised limiting outdoor lighting, keeping doors and windows closed at dusk, and sleeping under mosquito nets.

Doctors emphasize that early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent complications from both illnesses and have urged the public to remain vigilant as post-monsoon conditions favor rapid spread.