WHO Nepal briefs media on dengue risks and response before monsoon onset

The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office for Nepal, in collaboration with the Health Journalists Forum-Nepal, organized an interactive programme to enhance media engagement on the pressing public health challenge of dengue prevention and control.

Media interaction programme on dengue awareness held inside the premises of UN House, Bagmati province, Nepal. Photo credit: WHO/S.G.Amatya

Organized ahead of the monsoon season — when dengue transmission typically intensifies — the programme aimed to strengthen journalists' capacity to raise awareness, promote behaviour change and support community action by equipping them with accurate information and practical tools for effective public health communication on dengue prevention and control.

Thirteen members of the Health Journalists Forum-Nepal, representing a wide range of media outlets, were engaged in in-depth discussions, and explored how informed and ethical media coverage can counter misinformation, enhance public understanding and encourage preventive practices at the household and community levels.

Dr Kenza Bennani, Team Lead at Communicable Diseases and Surveillance unit, WHO Nepal, delivering her opening remarks virtually. Photo credit: WHO/S.G.Amatya

The session began with opening remarks delivered virtually by Dr Kenza Bennani, Team Lead at Communicable Diseases and Surveillance unit, WHO Nepal, highlighting the journalists' crucial role as a bridge between the public health professionals and the community to disseminate the evidence-based information on diseases of public health importance. She emphasized the need to work together towards a future where dengue is no longer a recurrent threat for Nepal but a manageable public health concern.

Dr Prakash Shakya, National Professional Officer for Neglected Tropical Diseases at WHO Nepal, delivering his presentation at the programme. Photo credit: WHO/S.G.Amatya

Dr Prakash Shakya, National Professional Officer for Neglected Tropical Diseases at WHO Nepal, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the global dengue distribution, the importance of identifying warning signs and timely treatment. He outlined the disease’s growing burden, particularly during the monsoon season and the need for community-level vigilance.

Mr Shishir Pant, entomologist at WHO Nepal, delivering his presentation. Photo credit: WHO/S.G.Amatya

Mr Shishir Pant, entomologist at WHO Nepal, provided an overview on the life cycle of the Aedes mosquito - responsible for spreading dengue. He shared practical prevention strategies, including eliminating stagnant water sources, adopting personal protective measures and maintaining environmental hygiene to disrupt mosquito breeding cycles.

Mr Prabesh Ghimire, Public Health and Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at WHO Nepal, delivering his presentation. Photo credit: WHO/S.G.Amatya

Adding to the technical insights, Mr Prabesh Ghimire, Public Health and Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at WHO Nepal, presented successful dengue control practices from other countries. He also identified common pitfalls in media reporting, such as sensationalism, usage of misleading images and insufficient focus on prevention. He encouraged journalists to verify information, rely on credible sources and prioritize solution-oriented stories that inspire public participation in prevention efforts.

Participants observing live Aedes mosquito larvae at the programme. Photo credit: WHO/S.G.Amatya

Participants also observed live Aedes mosquito larvae, gaining firsthand insight into breeding habits and the dangers of stagnant water. This demonstration emphasized the need to eliminate potential breeding sites.

Members from Health Journalist Forum Nepal actively engaged at the programme. Photo credit: WHO/S.G.Amatya

Journalists showed strong commitment, pledging to maintain clean surroundings, raise community awareness and share accurate prevention messages. They actively engaged with the presenters, asking insightful questions to deepen their understanding and improve how they communicate dengue-related information to the public, especially focusing on warning signs and effective and sustainable measures for mosquito control.

Members of Health Journalist Forum Nepal and organizers and facilitators from WHO Nepal. Photo credit: WHO/S.G.Amatya

The session concluded with a shared recognition that timely, accurate and evidence-based communication is vital for strengthening public understanding and action. By fostering collaboration between health authorities and the media, the programme marked a meaningful step toward building an informed and proactive public, better equipped to prevent and respond to potential dengue outbreaks.