DENGUE IS NOT A JOKE!

DENGUE IS NOT A JOKE!

Prevent DENGUE this rainy season!

Dengue is a serious illness. It's a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, and it can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe complications, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening. 

Preventing mosquito bites and reducing mosquito breeding sites are crucial in areas where dengue is prevalent.

WHAT IS DENGUE?

Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected "Aedes" mosquitoes, primarily "Aedes aegypti" and "Aedes albopictus". These mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon.

Symptoms of Dengue:

- High fever

- Severe headache

- Pain behind the eyes

- Joint and muscle pain

- Fatigue

- Nausea and vomiting

- Skin rash (appears 2-5 days after the onset of fever)

- Mild bleeding (such as nose or gum bleeding, or easy bruising)

In severe cases, dengue can lead to:

• Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF): Characterized by bleeding, blood plasma leakage, and low platelet count.
• Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS): A more severe form that can lead to shock, organ failure, and death if not treated promptly.

HOW TO PREVENT DENGUE?

Since there is no specific treatment for dengue and no widely available vaccine for all dengue strains, prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites and controlling mosquito populations.

1. Avoid Mosquito Bites:

• Use Insect Repellents: Apply insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing. DEET, picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, socks, and shoes to minimize skin exposure.
• Use Mosquito Nets: Sleep under a mosquito net, especially during the day when "Aedes" mosquitoes are most active.
• Stay in Screened or Air-Conditioned Areas: Keep doors and windows closed, or ensure screens are intact to keep mosquitoes out.

2. Control Mosquito Populations:

• Eliminate Breeding Sites: Aedes mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Regularly empty, clean, or cover containers that hold water, such as buckets, flower pots, and bird baths.
• Use Larvicides: In areas where water cannot be drained, use larvicides to kill mosquito larvae.
• Community Efforts: Engage in community clean-up campaigns to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.

3. Awareness and Early Detection:

• Community Awareness: Educate people in your community about the risks of dengue and the importance of prevention.
• Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect you have dengue, especially if you develop severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. Early detection and supportive care can reduce the risk of severe complications.

Preventing dengue requires a combination of personal protection, environmental management, and community cooperation.

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