Key Takeaways:
- 70 dengue cases reported in Sudurpaschim Province
- Kanchanpur leads with 28 infections; Achham follows with 13
- Health officials warn of severe risks from repeat infections
Kanchanpur has recorded the highest number of dengue infections in Sudurpaschim Province this fiscal year, with 28 confirmed cases in the past six months. Across the province, 70 infections have been reported, according to the District Health Office.
Malaria Inspector and Vector-borne Disease Focal Person Siddharaj Bhatta said Kanchanpur recorded five cases in January, six in February, five in March, seven in April, two in May, and three in June. Achham reported 13 cases, Kailali 10, Dadeldhura eight, Bajhang six, Doti three, and one case each in Darchula and Baitadi.
Health officials explained that dengue is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which breed in clean, stagnant water and are most active during the day. They urged households to eliminate water collection around homes, schools, and public places.
Bhatta warned that dengue has four virus serotypes, meaning infection with one type does not provide immunity against others. A second infection can be more severe and potentially life-threatening.
Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and abdominal pain, nausea, and rashes. Severe cases may lead to internal or external bleeding.
Shuklaphanta Municipality Health Branch Chief Parmananda Bhatta said timely diagnosis and treatment can keep the fatality rate below two percent. Infants, pregnant women, older adults, people with obesity or chronic illnesses, and patients with severe bleeding are at higher risk of complications.
Health authorities advised using paracetamol to reduce fever but cautioned against ibuprofen or aspirin due to bleeding risks. They also stressed that Aedes mosquito eggs can survive for months in dry conditions, making elimination of stagnant water the most effective prevention.
The District Health Office said funding has been allocated to all nine local levels in Kanchanpur to conduct "search and destroy" campaigns targeting mosquito larvae, alongside sanitation drives and awareness programmes.