Drive away dengue – Preventive measures for dengue fever

Dengue is caused by the dengue viruses that reside in the bodies of mosquitoes. When such mosquitoes bite a human, they pass on the virus to the human leaving him infected too.

Here is a low-down on how you can prevent yourself from falling prey to this disease by following these simple steps-

1. Stay well-screened:
   Keep mosquitoes away from your home by putting up screens on your doors and windows.
2. Air-conditioned spaces:
   As air-conditioned spaces are closed spaces, the mosquitoes do not find entry into it. Hence such spaces are safe and free from dengue causing mosquitoes.
3. Protective Clothing:
   Wear full sleeved clothes, long pants and socks when you step out of your homes. Do not leave any part of your skin exposed to mosquito bites.
4. Mosquito Nets:
   Mosquito nets are a great way of keeping the mosquitoes away at night while sleeping. This is particularly helpful when there is a baby at home.
5. Mosquito Repellants:
   Creams containing Permithrin are a great way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Apply over all the bedding, camping gear, etc. For the skin, use repellants containing DEET. Be careful while applying these creams as contact with the eyes or ingestion of the creams may be risky.
6. Reduce Mosquito Habitats:
   Dengue causing mosquitoes breed in stagnated water. Make sure that your kitchen sink is always free of unwashed vessels and stagnated water. Keep the area around the house free of any collected water, be it rainwater or drainage water.
   Waste bottles, old tyres and other stuff where water can collect and stagnate are also excellent breeding places for mosquitoes. Dispose of such things immediately.
7. Air Coolers:
   If you use the air cooler, make sure the water in it is changed regularly. When not in use, throw away the water and keep the cooler dry.
8. Fish for mosquitoes:
   Breeding Guppi fish in public tanks, lakes and ponds helps to keep the mosquito breeding under control.
9. Tulsi Treatment:
   Keep a potted Tulsi plant at your home. The medicinal properties of tulsi are known to drive away the mosquitoes.
10. Camphor Magic:
    Burning camphor inside your homes is an excellent way to prevent dengue. The camphor fumes drive away the mosquitoes keeping you and your family safe.