15th June 2015 is the official commemoration of ASEAN Dengue Day, a campaign to keep the public reminded again and again on the threats of Aedes mosquito. Looking at the number of cases and fatalities over the years, it is terrifying to know that a creature that looks harmless can be so deadly.
Having personally lost a friend due to Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever, I feel that it is important that everyone understands and is made aware of the danger of dengue.
What is dengue?
Dengue is a fatal disease caused by a virus that is easily transmitted by arthropods like Aedes mosquitoes.
How can one be infected by dengue?
Aedes mosquito will become infected after biting an individual who has dengue. The virus will then be transmitted to another person through its subsequent bites.
What are the signs and symptoms of dengue?
Symptoms of dengue in adults include a fever of 40C and at least two of the following symptoms:
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Muscle and joint pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Swollen glands
What should you do if you notice signs and symptoms of dengue?
Immediately seek medical consultation from your nearest doctor or hospital.
What can you do to protect yourself from mosquito bite?
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so wear long pants and long sleeves when you are outside. For additional protection, use mosquito repellent sprays that contain DEET when visiting dengue hotspots.
What can be done to minimise the spread of Dengue?
- The prevention of dengue requires control and eradication of the mosquitoes carrying the virus. As Aedes are inclined to breed in clean and stagnant water, you should get rid of their breeding grounds by frequently check and discard any stagnant water around your premises.
- A regular larvicide treatment can be done to help reduce its infestation.
- Thermal fogging can also be carried out once a month to eliminate the breeding of adult mosquitoes.
Learn more about Dengue phenomenon with our mosquito infographic.
For more information on how you can protect your family from dengue, kindly call our pest experts now at 1300 881 911.
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