Dengue is a major public-health concern throughout tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. It is the most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral disease. Transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, dengue can cause severe flu-like symptoms including high fever, severe headache and joint pain. In severe cases, dengue can lead to life-threatening complications such as haemorrhaging, organ failure and even death. Vulnerable populations include young children, pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Pankaj Soni, Principal Director, Internal Medicine, Fortis Escorts, Okhla Road, New Delhi listed essential preventive measures that one can undertake to stay safe from dengue.

Tips To Protect Yourself And Family From Dengue

1. Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents. Always follow the product label instructions.

2. Reapply repellent as directed. Do not apply repellent on the skin under clothing.

3. If you are using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second.

4. Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants.

5. Wear clothing and gear treated with permethrin.

6. Use mosquito nets while sleeping, especially in areas without screened windows or air conditioning.

7. Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito biting times—early morning and dusk.

8. Bathe daily and wear clean clothes to reduce mosquito attraction to sweat.

9. Control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors by using screens on windows and doors, repair holes in screens to keep mosquitoes outdoors, use air conditioning, if available.

10. Use indoor insecticides or plug-in mosquito repellents in mosquito-prone areas.

11. Close doors quickly and don’t leave them open unnecessarily.

12. Use mosquito rackets or traps indoors if needed.

13. Stop mosquitoes from laying eggs in or near water by checking for water-holding containers both indoors and outdoors.

14. Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover or throw out items that hold water such as tires, buckets, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, trash containers, open drums and pet water bowls.

15. Keep roof gutters clean and unclogged.

16. Cover all water storage containers tightly.

Simple preventive actions can go a long way in protecting your health and preventing dengue from spreading in your community.

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