Chitwan, Oct. 1 -- Chitwan, which usually records a sharp rise in dengue cases during the festive season, has seen far fewer infections this year. By Sunday, only 81 people had been diagnosed with dengue in the district since mid-July. In comparison, by the same date last year, 1,237 cases had already been confirmed, and the total number of infections rose to 2,872 by December, with one death reported.

Health experts say that while the infection rate appears subdued so far, the months of October and November remain critical. "This year, dengue transmission is very slow. Looking at the current numbers, it may not take a severe form. But October and November are always risky, so we must remain alert," said Dinesh Rupakheti, chief of the Bh...