Date: May 2, 2024

Introduction

Dengue fever is a growing concern in Nepal, and addressing its prevention, early detection, and control is crucial. A national workshop on dengue research was organized under the joint initiative of Keele University, UK, and Green Tara Nepal. Held at Hotel Hyatt Palace, Kathmandu, on the 20th of Baisakh, the event brought together experts from Nepal and abroad to discuss the latest research, challenges, and strategies to mitigate dengue’s impact.

About the Workshop

The workshop served as a platform for 12 national and international experts to present their research findings on dengue, with a total of 27 attendees. The discussions covered various aspects of dengue disease, including its risk factors, spread, impact, and control measures.

Key Insights from the Workshop

• Collaboration for Public Health: Dr. Priyanvada Paudyal emphasized the importance of cooperation in dengue research in Nepal.
• Dengue Risk Factors in Nepal: Dr. Gokarna Dahal discussed geographical, climatic, and demographic risk factors.
• Climate Change and Dengue: Dr. Reshma Tuladhar highlighted the connection between dengue and environmental changes.
• Serotypes and Prevention: Dr. Danai Papaconstantino suggested traveler screening in the UK for prevention.
• Dengue History and Prevention: Dr. Meghraj Banjara provided insights on dengue cases in Nepal since 2004.
• Regional Dengue Trends: Dr. Najmul Haider presented data on dengue in Bangladesh over the last two decades.
• Biomedical Research in Nepal: Dr. Samir Mani Dixit shared a summary of 17 years of biomedical research.
• Dengue in Children and Young Adults: Dr. Dipesh Tamrakar examined dengue cases among young populations in Kathmandu.
• Public Awareness and Prevention: Dr. Meghnath Dhimal emphasized the role of health education.
• Global Perspective on Dengue: Dr. Ajit Karna analyzed global influences on dengue outbreaks.
• Vector Control Strategies: Ganga GC stressed the need for effective dengue vector control in Nepal.
• Institutional Collaboration: Ramchandra Silwal highlighted the partnership between Keele University and Green Tara Nepal.

Conclusion

The national workshop successfully facilitated knowledge exchange among researchers and stakeholders, offering valuable insights into dengue prevention, early detection, and control. Strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and raising public awareness are key to mitigating dengue’s impact in Nepal. The event concluded with a call for continued research, policy development, and community engagement.