Nepal: Elevated dengue fever activity continues nationwide through October /update 3

Event

Nepalese health authorities continue to report elevated dengue fever activity nationwide, with 16,582 additional cases reported Oct. 1-31, bringing the total since Jan. 1 to 46,768 cases. Most of the cases (46,594) have been reported since July, corresponding to the rainy season in the country. This caseload is the largest in the country's history and a significant increase compared to the 540 cases reported during all of 2021. Officials have reported disease activity nationwide, with Bagmati being the most affected province (36,441 cases); within the province, Kathmandu (13,566), Lalitpur (9,295), and Makwanpur (5,045) districts have reported the highest activity. This report represents the most complete data available as of Nov. 1.

Context

Dengue fever is considered a year-round threat in Nepal, with the highest risk occurring from June through September. Authorities identified roughly 540 cases of dengue fever in 2021, 530 cases in 2020, 17,992 cases in 2019, and 811 cases in 2018.

A dengue fever vaccine is available in some countries. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in countries where there is a high risk of contracting the disease. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated in a timely manner.

Advice

Consult with your physician regarding dengue fever vaccination if you have previously been infected with the disease. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding associated with the disease.