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Dengue Prevention During Monsoon
Monsoon Brings Surge in Dengue Cases: Doctors Advise Caution, Early Detection
As the monsoon season sets in, health experts are warning of a significant rise in dengue cases. The rainy season provides the ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, the primary carriers of the dengue virus. With the increasing number of cases, doctors are urging the public to exercise caution and prioritize early detection.
While the monsoon brought in relief from the sweltering heat, cases of dengue have spiralled in various parts of the country including in Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Maharashtra. Doctors on Sunday advised caution and also stressed the need for early detection to boost outcomes.
Dengue is a vector-borne disease transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. The mosquitoes thrive in warm and humid environments, causing the disease that is endemic to more than 100 countries.
“Children have a higher risk of getting dengue fever with varied presentations than in earlier years. The classical presentation would be a brief period of febrile illness with vomiting and pain in the abdomen, decreased appetite, and generalised myalgia. But during this season even children with atypical upper respiratory infections and Gastroenteritis are also positive for dengue,” Santosh Kumar, Senior Consultant, and Lead – Paediatrics & Neonatology, Motherhood Hospitals, Banashankari, Bengaluru, told IANS.
Karnataka reported 5,374 cases and five deaths from dengue; Telangana 882 cases, while Andhra Pradesh reported cases of both dengue and malaria, Odisha 288, Ernakulam in Kerala has seen 400 cases.
Symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, and rash all are early indications of dengue.
Dengue fever is usually a community outbreak and early diagnosis is crucial, the experts said, noting that while majorly it is self-limiting, in some cases, it can progress to severe dengue, also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.
Persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, mucosal bleeding, and signs of circulatory failure may indicate a more severe case of dengue.
“Early diagnosis allows for timely administration of medications to alleviate these symptoms, improving the patient’s comfort and quality of life during the illness,” Aravinda S N, Lead Consultant – Internal Medicine, Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru, told IANS.
“Early diagnosis not only benefits the individual patient but also plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of dengue virus to others. Identifying and isolating infected individuals early in the course of the illness can help prevent further transmission of the virus to mosquitoes, breaking the cycle of dengue transmission in the community,” he added.
The doctors called for maintaining adequate hydration levels due to fluid loss due to fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
The experts also advised people to take protective precautions like avoiding standing water, where mosquitoes can breed, and using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing.
Essential Dengue Prevention During Monsoon: Doctors Advise Caution, Early Detection
As the monsoon season sets in, health experts are warning of a significant rise in dengue cases. The rainy season provides the ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, the primary carriers of the dengue virus. With the increasing number of cases, doctors are urging the public to exercise caution and prioritize early detection for effective dengue prevention during monsoon.
Why Dengue Spikes During Monsoon
The monsoon season creates stagnant water pools, which are perfect breeding sites for mosquitoes. Increased humidity and warmth also contribute to their proliferation, leading to a spike in mosquito-borne diseases like dengue. Effective dengue prevention during monsoon involves understanding these conditions and taking appropriate measures.
Symptoms to Watch For
Early symptoms of dengue can be mistaken for other illnesses, so it’s crucial to be vigilant. Common symptoms include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Joint and muscle pain
- Rash
- Nausea and vomiting
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. Early detection and treatment are critical components of dengue prevention during monsoon.
Preventive Measures
Doctors recommend several preventive measures to reduce the risk of dengue:
- Eliminate Standing Water: Regularly check and remove standing water in and around your home to support dengue prevention during monsoon.
- Use Mosquito Repellents: Apply repellents to exposed skin and wear long-sleeved clothing.
- Install Screens: Ensure windows and doors have screens to keep mosquitoes out.
- Use Mosquito Nets: Sleep under mosquito nets, especially in areas with high mosquito activity.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Keep your surroundings clean and free of trash that can collect water, a vital step in dengue prevention during monsoon.
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of dengue is crucial for effective treatment. Delays in diagnosis can lead to severe complications, including dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. If diagnosed early, supportive care can manage symptoms and prevent severe outcomes. Thus, early detection is a cornerstone of dengue prevention during monsoon.
Community Efforts
Community involvement plays a vital role in controlling the spread of dengue. Participate in local clean-up drives, spread awareness, and cooperate with health authorities during mosquito control initiatives. Collective action enhances dengue prevention during monsoon.
Conclusion
As the monsoon season continues, it is essential to remain vigilant and take preventive measures against dengue. By following the advice of health professionals and being proactive in early detection, we can mitigate the impact of this seasonal surge in dengue cases. Stay informed, stay safe, and prioritize dengue prevention during monsoon to protect yourself and your loved ones from this mosquito-borne disease.
