7 Preventive Measures for Dengue Fever

What is Dengue fever?

The Aedes aegypti mosquito transmits dengue fever, a viral tropical disease. The mosquito typically breeds in flowerpots and filthy water and is widespread in suburban and urban regions. In contrast to mosquitoes that carry out nighttime attacks on humans, the daytime mosquito bites people. Due to the severe muscular and joint agony that fever sufferers endure, it is also known as “break-bone fever.“

The virus circulates in the blood for 2–7 days after a mosquito bite, which is the time it takes for a fever to appear. When the first symptoms of dengue fever start to manifest, which typically occurs 4-5 days after being bitten, the disease can still be spread if a person has previously been infected. That is why it is essential to follow preventive measures for dengue fever.

These 7 Preventive Measures for Dengue Fever

1. Use Mosquito Repellent

Use of mosquito repellent lotions is the most effective method of preventing dengue disease. In general, the period of protection varies depending on the brand and should not exceed three times each day. The duration of protection increases with concentration. Make sure you first conduct a patch test because some individuals may have an adverse reaction to the ingredients in cream repellents.

Some other effective repellents include:

• Mosquito patches: On the backside of garments, these patches can be attached. They are non-toxic and have a three-day shelf life. They are excellent for newborns and small children because of how safe they are to use.
• Repellent bands: These silicone bracelets are waterproof and citronella-infused to deter mosquito bites.
• Mosquito wipes: For kids, these anti-mosquito wipes are a terrific alternative to lotions and much less messy.

2. Wear Protective Clothing

During the mosquito season, it is advisable to sleep in air-conditioned rooms with mosquito nets covering the windows. Put on clothing that completely covers your skin, such as long sleeves and long pants. You have a lesser likelihood of being bitten if you have less exposed skin. It is also a good idea to dress in light colours because they typically keep mosquitoes away.

3. Use mosquito deterrents

Use cleaning supplies and other repellents that stop dengue mosquitoes from entering your home when cleaning. This includes electronic vaporizers, which often deter mosquitoes all day long from entering the residence. However, children who use vapourizers run the risk of developing an allergic reaction. Another choice is to add a drop of lemongrass or citronella essential oil to water before mopping the floors because these oils ward off mosquitoes. To avoid being bitten while you sleep, use bed nets that have been insecticide-treated and make sure the windows are sealed. Because of the aroma, putting cloves in lemons and oranges can also keep flies and mosquitoes out of the house.

4. Stay away from breeding grounds

Mosquitoes frequently reside in filthy environments, such as stagnant pools, where they can spawn. Make sure that no area of your home, such as the unwashed dishes or the dirty floors, has an unwarranted accumulation of dirt or grime. It is crucial to maintain a spotless home to avoid becoming infected by dengue mosquitoes.

5. Avoid smells that attract mosquitoes

Like moths to a flame, mosquitoes are attracted to particular odours like sweat and perfume. Use unscented perfumes and lotions, and take frequent showers to get rid of sweat.

6. Make sure your home is well-lit

Mosquitoes typically breed in dim, cramped spaces. To keep mosquitoes out of your home, leave the windows open all day to the sun. Make sure windows and doors are closed and covered with mosquito screens for enhanced security.

7. Be aware about dengue fever

When the virus is found in the salivary glands of the mosquito and is transmitted to people by a mosquito bite, dengue fever is the result. Viraemia is the outcome of the virus entering the blood stream. After entering your system, the virus spreads throughout your body. When it comes to dengue, prevention is always the best course of action due to the severity of the illness. Families should be informed about dengue, its effects, and the steps they should take to prevent contracting this crippling illness.

Even while it is not usually fatal, dengue fever is not a pleasant condition to have. Take the measures outlined above to prevent mosquito bites during India’s mosquito breeding season, which is often during the monsoon season. Make sure you follow these 7 preventive measures for dengue fever from Sujata Birla Hospital while keeping in mind that prevention is always better than treatment!