Steps to avoid #Dengue

Here are a few measures, which can help to avoid dengue:

1. 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 mosquitoes. So don’t let trash like tires, tubes, and coconut shells sit outside the house.

2. 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 mosquitoes. Experts also suggest not keeping plants indoors in this season as they attract mosquitoes. If you do keep potted plants, ensure that water does not accumulate in the pot.

3. 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.

4. The mosquito generally bites below the knee, according to Meena Malkani, consulting pediatrician at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai. 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 repellent creams and lotions on exposed skin, and sprays on clothes for extra protection. But avoid putting mosquito repellent on children’s hands as they may put their hands in their mouths, Ms. Malkani added. Insect repellents without harmful side-effects if ingested, are also available. You could also use mosquito-repellent patches and mosquito nets when sleeping.

5. According to Ms. Mhaiskar, the BMC has, since 2010, tried to control the accumulation of water in public places and in slums. The BMC also regularly fumigates areas in the city with insecticide, Ms. Mhaiskar said. Additionally house owners could also get their surroundings fumigated if they feel that there are many mosquitoes around.

6. Dengue, also known as “break bone fever” causes very severe joint and muscular pain. Go to a doctor if you have any symptoms of dengue such as, but not limited to, a sudden onset of fever, severe headache particularly in the forehead, pain behind the eyes which might restrict eye movement, nausea or vomiting. Some people might also get a skin rash with tiny red spots on the skin.