Dengue infections—typically peaking between June and August—have seen a sharp rise in recent days, health authorities say.

According to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), a total of 1,255 cases were recorded nationwide between January 1 and June 8.

Infections have been reported in 72 of Nepal’s 77 districts, with Kathmandu logging the highest number at 132 cases, followed by Kaski (90), Sunsari (87), Chitwan (61), Rupandehi (47), Kanchanpur (37), Dang (32), and Bhaktapur (30), according to the state-owned RSS news agency.

With monsoon clouds entering Nepal earlier than usual and above-average rainfall predicted, health experts warn of a possible surge in cases surpassing last year’s figures.

“While we lack comprehensive data to project exact trends, the early onset of the monsoon and forecast of heavier rains indicate an increased risk of dengue transmission this year,” said Dr. Gokarna Dahal, Chief of the NTD and Vector-Borne Disease Control Section at the EDCD.

(With inputs from RSS)