How to Protect Themselves against Vector-Borne Diseases, Such as Dengue

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How to Protect Themselves against Vector-Borne Diseases, Such as Dengue
September 20, 2024 by admin

Vector-borne diseases are those infectious diseases caused by pathogens and parasites that are conveyed by vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. Among these vector-borne diseases, dengue fever spread by the Aedes mosquito has attained widespread attention within the last several decades owing to growing concern as a public health issue in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. With the advent of urbanization and global warming, dengue cases are on the rise. It would make people more conscious of learning how to prevent this potentially serious disease. Here are a few key strategies by Sugam Hospitals on protecting against dengue and other vector-borne diseases.

1. How Dengue is Transmitted:

It is mainly transferred through an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito that is more active during the day time, most importantly at dawn and dusk. However, the virus is not transferred directly from one human being to another but through bites of mosquitoes. The symptoms of dengue include high fever and acute pain in the head, joints, and muscles. The rash may appear, and at worst, it becomes hemorrhagic fever or shock syndrome. If you have any of the symptoms you can get the best results from our best diagnostic centre chennai and get treated quickly.

2. Regular use of Mosquito Repellents

The best preventive measure against mosquito bites is by using DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus repellents. Spray or apply repellents on all exposed skin surfaces, especially during mosquito activity. Be reminded, though, that you may have to reapply repellents as often as indicated on the label, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.

3. Wear Protective Clothing

To minimize your chances of mosquito bites, don the usage of clothes that reach down to your arm to prevent mosquitoes from reaching to the skin. Long pants, shoes, and socks should also be put on. Light-colored clothing is ideal because mosquitoes are usually attracted to dark colors. Another measure is treating your clothes with permethrin, an insecticide which repels mosquitoes and other vectors.

4. Install Mosquito Nets and Screens

In your house, you use a mosquito net at night as you sleep. Ensure that on your windows and doors you have a fine mesh screen that keeps out the mosquitoes. Other protections include having installed insecticide-treated nets and mosquito traps for further reduction of the mosquito populations near your living space. 

5. Remove Mosquito Breeding Sites

One of the most important practices in preventing dengue is the elimination of breeding places for mosquitoes. Aedes lays eggs in stagnant water; therefore, it is urgent to remove all standing water around your house. Tipping and cleaning or cover containers that collect water, including flowerpots, buckets, tires, and gutters. Frequently changing water in pet’s dishes, bird baths, and vases also breaks the cycle of the mosquito.

Dengue and other vector-borne diseases are health risks and can be diagnosed through our diagnostic labs in Chennai, but it goes a very long way in reducing the risk of catching these diseases by having precautions in place. Use repellents and protective clothing, eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes, and keep aware of local health concerns. These preventive measures will save you and your community from the risk of dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses. Proactive prevention is the key to safety and health in regions where these diseases are wide-spread.