Dengue has hit the heart of India, Delhi. The national capital is witnessing the worst dengue outbreak in the last five years with over 2000 cases being recorded so far.
What is dengue?
A mosquito borne viral disease, dengue or ‘break bone fever’ is caused by virus carried by Aedes mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day (as against malaria, where these parasites attack during the night time).
These mosquitoes do not breed in contaminated water, but they lay their eggs in fresh water which makes it more difficult to control breeding of Aedes mosquito. The dengue carrying mosquito does not confine itself to poorer areas.
Here are a few measures to keep dengue at bay:
The best way to guard against the disease is to make sure there are no containers outside the house such as on a balcony or in a garden where rain water can collect, experts say. Hygienic surroundings are less likely to breed mosquitos. So don’t let trash like tires, tubes, and coconut shells sit outside the house.
If you do have pots of water, be careful not to leave them uncovered: Keep a lid on buckets and especially overhead water tanks. Check that the water emitted from air conditioners does not collect and become a breeding place for mosquitos.
Experts also suggest not keeping plants indoors in this season as they attract mosquitos. If you do keep potted plants, ensure that water does not accumulate in the pot.
Unlike other mosquitoes, the Aedes aegypti is a daytime feeder, meaning it’s important not to become exposed at peak biting times in the early morning and just before dusk.
The mosquito generally bites below the knee, according to experts. So wear clothes that at least cover your calves, ankles and feet.
Make sure children going out wear clothes that cover their arms, legs and feet completely. You could also use mosquito repellant creams and lotions on exposed skin, and sprays on clothes for extra protection.
Using camphor as a repellent also works wonders. Light camphor in a room and close all the doors and windows. Leave it this way for about fifteen to twenty minutes to have a mosquito free environment.
At the moment, there aren’t any vaccines or medicines to prevent dengue fever. The only way to prevent catching it is to protect yourself from getting bitten by mosquitoes. So stay safe guys!