Tips to Protect Against Dengue
Along with the COVID-19 outbreak, cases of Dengue are on the rise as well. Watch our latest video to learn about the measures to protect against Dengue.
India is still fighting the coronavirus pandemic. But at the same time there is another major health threat in India. It is that of Dengue. COVID-19 & Dengue are different and the way they spread is also different. But both the illnesses at the same time will be very difficult for hospitals and doctors as they will be overburdened by patients. The healthcare infrastructure is already-overburdened currently with COVID-19. Its vaccine is not yet available. COVID-19 is caused by the newly discovered coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. It is a highly contagious disease. Dengue is caused due to the biting of a mosquitoes. The disease is prevalent in more than 100 countries around the world. The preventive measures meant for both illnesses might overlap. For example - to protect from the coronavirus staying home is essential but this may increase one's chances of getting bitten by mosquitoes especially in high-risk areas.
Mosquitoes that spread dengue breed in standing water. To prevent the spread of Dengue one must make sure there is no water left in buckets or any containers for too long. Governments must make sure to keep checking areas for such stagnant water. However, due to coronavirus lockdowns and other restrictions, these dengue preventive measures have either been reduced or stopped completely in many areas.
To prevent getting bitten by dengue-carrying mosquitoes, follow these steps:
1) Wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants.
2) Turn empty pots and buckets upside down.
3) Apply mosquito repellent creams and lotions on exposed areas of your body.
4) Block any openings/holes in your windows and door screens.
5) Use a mosquito net while sleeping.
6) Keep your dustbins well covered.
According to data from last year, 1, 36,422 dengue cases in India and about 132 people died of the disease.
