Dengue Fever (Break Bone Fever): The Silent Killer
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that has become an increasing health concern in Nepal. It is also called "Break Bone Fever" The first outbreak was reported in 2004, and since then, the number of dengue cases has been rising each year.
The disease is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes are mainly found in urban areas, breeding in stagnant water and biting during daytime.
Dengue fever symptoms can range from mild to severe and include high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, and rash. In severe cases, dengue can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening.
Nepal experiences dengue outbreaks mostly during the monsoon season, from June to September, due to favorable conditions for mosquito breeding. The disease is prevalent in urban areas, particularly Kathmandu and its surrounding districts.
Nepal's government and health authorities have been implementing various measures to control and prevent dengue. This includes public awareness campaigns on personal protection against mosquito bites, proper waste management, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Additionally, efforts are made to improve vector surveillance and control measures.
Despite these efforts, the number of dengue cases has continued to increase in recent years. Factors contributing to this escalation include climate change, rapid urbanization, and lack of adequate healthcare facilities and resources to handle outbreaks effectively.
In conclusion, dengue fever has become a significant health issue in Nepal, primarily affecting urban areas during the monsoon season. The government and healthcare authorities are working to control the disease through preventive measures and improved healthcare infrastructure, but challenges persist in tackling the rising number of dengue cases.
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