Kanchanpur – Once considered a seasonal disease appearing only during summer and monsoon, dengue infections are now being reported throughout the year in Sudurpaschim Province, attributed to the growing impact of climate change.
According to Hemraj Joshi, Information Officer at the Provincial Health Emergency Operation Center, the extended breeding season of mosquitoes, abnormal temperature rise, and irregular rainfall patterns have significantly contributed to the year-round presence of dengue.
“Previously, dengue was only seen during the hot and rainy seasons, but now it is appearing even during colder months,” said Joshi. “The rise in ambient temperature has allowed mosquitoes to survive all year long.”
He noted that favorable weather conditions are supporting the mosquito life cycle, making dengue a growing public health challenge. From January to June 2025, a total of 167 cases of dengue have been reported in Sudurpaschim Province. The monthly breakdown is as follows:
- January: 22 cases
- February: 27 cases
- March: 17 cases
- April: 40 cases
- May: 34 cases
- June (so far): 20 cases
The highest number of infections were recorded in Dadeldhura (34 cases), followed by Kailali (31), Kanchanpur (29), Doti (25), Achham (24), Bajhang (11), Bajura (11), and Darchula (2). Remarkably, no cases have been reported in Baitadi during this period.
Dengue is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. Poor waste management, particularly in waterlogged areas and plastic waste, has facilitated the mosquito’s reproduction. Joshi emphasized the need for year-round awareness and prevention measures, not just seasonal vigilance.
To combat dengue, climate-resilient sanitation strategies, community awareness campaigns, and larvae destruction programs must be prioritized, he said. With the onset of the monsoon season, there is a high possibility of a sharp rise in infections, which makes environmental hygiene more crucial than ever.
Since the Aedes mosquito is more active in the morning and afternoon, health officials recommend:
- Wearing long-sleeved clothing
- Using mosquito nets while sleeping
- Preventing water stagnation
- Emptying containers, tanks, buckets, tires, etc., at least once a week
- Conducting awareness programs in schools
“The risk of dengue spreading is highest during summer and the rainy season,” said Paramananda Bhatt, Head of the Health Division at Shuklaphanta Municipality. “Now is the time to intensify public awareness and sanitation drives. With vigilance, dengue can be prevented.”
