Dengue, scrub typhus and Japanese encephalitis kill 31 as insect-borne disease risk rises

Outbreaks of insect-borne diseases, including dengue, scrub typhus and Japanese encephalitis, are rising in Nepal. Thirty-one people have died from these three diseases.

Although the outbreak of insect-borne diseases grows every year, reports note that the state has not been able to pay sufficient attention to prevention and control. Without an adequate budget, public awareness and an effective control plan, preventing such diseases has become difficult.

Lack of budget, insufficient public awareness and negligence at the citizen level have also been cited as reasons behind the rising risk.

Dengue, scrub typhus and Japanese encephalitis are diseases transmitted through insect bites. As outbreaks increase, calls have grown for a dedicated budget and an effective plan for prevention and control.