KATHMANDU: The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has said that its multi-stakeholder dengue control program has proven effective in curbing the spread of dengue, which typically emerges as an epidemic during the monsoon season.

According to data shared by the metropolis, the infection rate has significantly declined in recent months.

From mid-June 2023 to mid-August 2024, the city recorded 3,586 dengue cases.

The figure had risen to 5,637 in the following year. However, since mid-August 2024 to date, only 349 cases have been reported — a notable decrease attributed to the city’s coordinated prevention efforts.

Mayor Balen Shah said that this success is the result of collaboration among elected representatives, health workers, female community volunteers, local development committees, civil society groups, clubs, and community leaders.

They have been actively engaged in destroying mosquito breeding sites and conducting awareness campaigns across all wards.

Under the ongoing campaign, the metropolis has mobilized its central office, ward offices, and community-level institutions to identify and eliminate mosquito larvae and breeding areas.

A Rapid Response Team (RRT) has also been formed to assist with patient care, provide consultations, and help in early disease detection.

Awareness programs — including public announcements, school outreach, and door-to-door visits — are being organized to encourage citizen participation in dengue control activities.

The Department of Environment Management has intensified sanitation programs, while the Health Department is providing rapid diagnostic testing (RDT), essential medicines like paracetamol and oral rehydration salts, and 24-hour telephone consultations.

The city’s municipal police have been deployed to spray larvicide, and the Nepal Red Cross Society has been partnering with KMC to ensure free blood and blood components for patients.

Free ambulance services have also been made available for emergency transport.

“We remain alert and responsible towards safeguarding public health,” said Mayor Shah, adding that despite the city’s continuous efforts, dengue control requires collective action.

“Every individual must destroy mosquito breeding sites in their homes and surroundings. Cooperation from provincial and federal governments is also vital for smooth treatment and response,” he stated.

Mayor Shah called on all residents to join hands to prevent a resurgence of the disease, emphasizing, “Let’s work together to control the epidemic.”