How to protect yourself from dengue

There is a light, cool breeze in the morning. By afternoon, the heat becomes intense again. Although the weather becomes somewhat comfortable after evening, reports of fever, cold and cough can be heard everywhere. The change of seasons is also affecting our bodies. Along with this, dengue is raising fresh concerns.

Winter is still some time away. But taking precautions against dengue before then can significantly reduce the risk.

Start preventing dengue at home

Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit dengue, usually breed in stagnant water. Therefore, preventing water from accumulating around the home is one of the most important ways to prevent dengue.

Keep a regular watch on places where water can collect, including flowerpots, saucers under pots, buckets, drums, discarded bottles, coconut shells and old tires. At least once a week, thoroughly check both inside and outside the home and remove any stagnant water. Simply throwing away the water is not enough. Containers where water accumulates must also be cleaned properly. Aedes mosquito eggs may remain attached to the sides of these containers.

Do not ignore daytime mosquitoes

Aedes mosquitoes do not bite only at night. They are also active during the day. Therefore, it is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites during the daytime as well.

When going outside, keep as much of the body covered as possible. Use screens on doors and windows and use mosquito repellent when necessary. It is also a good practice to use mosquito nets when children or sick people sleep during the day.

Be alert when you have a fever

If you develop a fever during this period, it is not advisable to simply assume that it is due to the change in weather. Dengue can generally cause fever along with headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea or a rash.

If such symptoms appear, medical advice should be sought. If dengue is suspected, it is safer to follow a doctor’s advice rather than taking medication on your own. In particular, people are advised to avoid medicines such as aspirin or ibuprofen.

If dengue is diagnosed, the patient should also be protected from mosquito bites. A mosquito that bites an infected person can transmit the infection to others.

We cannot control the changing seasons. But keeping the area around the home clean, preventing stagnant water and avoiding mosquito bites are small habits that can provide significant protection against dengue.