Dengue Cases On The Rise In Kerala; Tips To Prevent

As the monsoon arrives, the Dengue cases in the state are on the rise in Kerala. So far, 877 cases of the vector-borne disease have been reported in the state.

With the arrival of the rainy season, there is a rapid spread of viral and bacterial diseases such as dengue, leptospirosis (rat fever), and viral fever in the state, according to a report in Manorama. Sources have informed the website that over 1.5 lakh such cases have been reported, so far.

In two weeks, there were 23 deaths due to dengue and rat diseases, the report said citing the health department data. In 17 days, 13 people lost their lives due to Dengue and 27 died due to rat fever.

The report claims that many are suffering from viral fever which has symptoms similar to Covid-19.

On the other hand, the public has been strongly advised by the health department to refrain from self-medication and to exercise utmost caution in order to minimize the risk of infection. In Ernakulam, the count of fever patients exceeded 1,000 on Saturday, resulting in numerous admissions to several hospitals.

Also, there is a huge rise in fever cases and fever wards are almost full in most hospitals. The local governments are blamed for the rise in fever cases as they failed to carry out pre-monsoon cleaning activities that result in the spread of diseases.

How to prevent Dengue? Here are effective tips

Eliminate Mosquito Egg-Laying Sites

An important preventive measure for areas infested with Aedes mosquitoes is to eliminate the mosquitoes' egg-laying sites - called source reduction. The dengue mosquito lays its eggs in water-filled containers inside the house and surrounding areas of dwellings (this includes non-used bottles, containers, discarded waste, tyres etc... which hold water).

Proper Clothing

The most effective way to prevent the contagious disease is by protecting yourself from mosquito bites. Reduce exposing skin to mosquitoes to bite on by wearing full-sleeved clothing.

Mosquito Repellents

Using mosquito repellents (containing DEET, IR3535 or Icaridin) to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes is the most viable option.

Use Mosquito Nets

Mosquito nets (and/or insecticide-treated nets) will also provide additional protection to people sleeping during the day, or protect against other mosquitoes which can bite at night (such as malaria). Household insecticides aerosols, mosquito coils or other insecticide vaporizers maybe also reduce biting activity.

Plan Your Outings

Dengue fever can be contracted not only within the confines of your home but also during outdoor activities such as camping on a humid day or taking a walk in the woods on a rainy day. It is advisable to plan your trips according to the weather conditions.