Every year, National Dengue Day is observed on May 16. The common symptoms of dengue are fever, headache, nausea, joint pain and rash. Dengue happens when the mosquito acquires the virus after biting a person with dengue, and further transfers it by biting another person.
The theme for this year’s National Dengue Day is – Dengue Prevention: Our Responsibility for a Safer Tomorrow. The day is observed to start conversations regarding the disease and speak of the treatment facilities available that can help in combating the disease. The treatment options should be made accessible to everyone. The day also identifies the efforts that are being made to ensure that the disease is eradicated soon.
The transmission of dengue fever frequently peaks during and after rainy seasons, following seasonal patterns. A number of factors, including high mosquito populations, susceptibility to circulating serotypes, favorable air temperatures, precipitation, and humidity, have been linked to this increase. These factors also affect the dengue virus incubation period and mosquito populations’ feeding and reproductive patterns.
On their official website, the WHO stated that “staffing shortages and a lack of proactive control interventions are some other challenges.”
Tips to Avoid Mosquito Bites:
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When we step outside or enter a place with lots of mosquitoes, we should ensure that the maximum part of our bodies is covered in clothes.
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The use of insect-repellent lotions can help in keeping the mosquitoes at bay. Lemon eucalyptus is one of the active ingredients in mosquito repellents. We can also use lemon eucalyptus oil.
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While mopping the floors, we can use a drop of lemongrass or citronella essential oil to ward off mosquitoes.
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We can use window screens to prevent mosquitoes from getting inside. While sleeping, using a mosquito net can also prevent mosquito bites.
No specific treatment for dengue fever exists. While recovering from dengue fever, drink plenty of fluids.