Dengue death toll in Nepal rises to seven

Kathmandu, October 2 — The number of deaths from dengue infection in Nepal has reached seven. According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), seven people have died out of a total of 14,975 reported cases across the country.

This figure has been recorded since the second week of January. The EDCD reports that dengue has spread to 76 out of 77 districts nationwide.

Dr. Yaduchandra Ghimire, head of the EDCD, stated that areas affected by floods and landslides are at increased risk for waterborne diseases such as dengue, diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, jaundice, and pneumonia.

“There is no proper shelter in flood-affected areas, which heightens the risk of disease,” he said, adding, “In such situations, special attention must be given to food and hygiene.”

He recommends that agencies providing drinking water in flood-affected areas ensure the availability of clean and safe water. The Ministry has urged people to wash their hands thoroughly before eating and cooking, and to avoid open defecation.

Particularly vulnerable groups, including children, those with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, face a higher risk of waterborne diseases, necessitating careful attention to personal hygiene.