Dengue Surge Threat 2026

Monsoon onset in Nepal caused a rise in fever cases linked to waterborne diseases including dengue, scrub typhus, and typhoid, driven by poor drainage and increased mosquito activity, particularly in Kathmandu where scrub typhus appeared sporadically.

Onset of daily rainfall in Nepal has increased dengue infection risk by creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes in accumulated rainwater, typically elevating risk from mid-June to mid-November during monsoon season.

Dengue infections in Nepal reached 1,042 across 71 districts including major affected areas like Jhapa, Kathmandu, and Sunsari, with two deaths reported; the government initiated a 'search and destroy' mosquito control campaign backed by over 30 crore rupees funding.

During the week of June 15 to 21, 53 dengue cases were recorded nationally with the highest in Lumbini Province; additionally, scrub typhus and kala-azar cases continued mainly in Sudurpaschim and Bagmati provinces amid ongoing monsoon conditions.

Nepal's Department of Health Services activated a nationwide alert, allocated over 30 crore rupees for epidemic control, and trained more than 200 health workers to enhance rapid response against monsoon-related diseases including dengue.

Nepal reported over 900 dengue infections in 68 districts, including mountainous areas previously considered low risk, with officials warning of a potential surge associated with the ongoing monsoon season.

Rising climate change and urbanization have extended dengue and other monsoon-triggered disease risks beyond traditional regions to include hills, mountains, and the Kathmandu Valley, necessitating integrated prevention efforts.

Nepal's Ministry of Health established rapid response teams and launched a national monsoon preparedness plan involving all government levels to address expected monsoon-related health issues, focusing on medicine management and public awareness.