Dengue cases are witnessing an upward trend in many parts of the country partly due to waterlogging and heavy rains this time. Dengue fever is a viral disease which is spread to human through bite of Aedes mosquitoes. It can cause high fever, body ache, headache, skin rash, nausea among others when the disease is mild. Severe disease symptoms include bleeding from the nose or gums, low blood pressure, low blood platelets, confusion among others.

Dr. Saibal Chakravorty, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine, Metro Hospitals & Heart Institute, Noida Sector-11, UP shares important lifestyle measures to prevent dengue:

1. Mosquito protection: Wear long sleeves and pants, use mosquito repellent, and sleep under a mosquito net to minimize exposure.

2. Eliminate breeding sites: Regularly empty containers with stagnant water, such as flower pots, discarded tires, and uncovered water storage, as mosquitoes breed in such areas.

3. Clean environment: Maintain cleanliness in and around your living space to prevent mosquito breeding. Regularly clean gutters, drains, and trash cans.

4. Protective clothing: When outdoors, wear light-coloured clothing that covers your body to reduce mosquito attraction.

5. Window and door screens: Install screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out while ensuring proper ventilation.

7. Natural repellents: Plant mosquito-repelling plants like citronella, lemongrass, and mint around your home.

8. Avoid peak mosquito times: Mosquitoes are most active during early morning and late afternoon. Minimise outdoor activities during these times.

9. Travel precautions: If traveling to dengue-prone areas, take precautions such as wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellents.

10. Personal hygiene: Maintain good personal hygiene, as mosquitoes are attracted to sweat and body odour.

11. Community efforts: Collaborate with your community to ensure that public spaces are clean and mosquito breeding sites are eliminated.

12. Educate yourself: Stay informed about dengue prevention methods and spread awareness to your friends and family.

Source: Hindustan Times