It was only recently that Kerala escaped from the grip of the fatal Nipah fever. Now, the dangerous dengue fever is posing a threat as already three people from Kannur district have succumbed to it in June as soon as monsoon had arrived. In the same month 1,400 suspect cases have been reported in Kasaragod, the northernmost district.
The monsoon months see a particular rise in this mosquito-borne disease because its agents breed in stagnant water. There are no vaccines for the virus yet.
Listed here are precautions that may be taken to avoid the dengue virus.
• Use mosquito repellents generously. Apply/spray them regularly, even when indoors.
• Wear full-sleeved clothes and pants that fully cover your legs.
• Ensure no water is getting accumulated near your house or workplace. Mosquitoes can breed even in little amount of water accumulated in tires, flower pots, etc.
• Not only body-specific repellents, use potent mosquito sprays in every corner of your house at least once a day.
• Keep doors and windows shut, especially during early mornings, and evenings.
• Do not re-use hand towels or handkerchiefs after a day's use.
• Try staying indoors early in the morning and during evenings.
• Cloudy monsoon days may make it difficult to dry washed or wet clothes but dry them as soon as possible even if it requires using dryers or ironing them.
However, see a doctor if you feel even slightly feverish.
Here are a few dengue fever symptoms to look out for:
• Body/muscle ache
• Pain in eyes.
• Rashes or red spots anywhere on the body.
• Nausea/vomiting
• Headaches
• Shortness of breath.
• Sudden drop in blood pressure.
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