Guideline How to prevent dengue fever

To prevent dengue fever, it is important to take measures to reduce mosquito breeding sites and protect yourself from mosquito bites. Here are some guidelines to help you prevent dengue fever:

1. Eliminate mosquito breeding sites:
   • Regularly empty and clean any containers that can hold stagnant water, such as flower pots, buckets, and discarded tires.
   • Ensure that water storage containers are covered tightly to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.
   • Clean and unclog roof gutters to allow water to flow freely.
   • Keep drains and ditches clear of debris to avoid water stagnation.
2. Use mosquito repellents:
   • Apply mosquito repellents containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin. Follow the instructions on the product label.
   • Reapply mosquito repellent as directed, especially if you are sweating or exposed to water.
   • Use mosquito repellent creams or lotions on infants and young children, avoiding their hands, eyes, and mouth.
   • Use mosquito nets or screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
3. Wear protective clothing:
   • Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed shoes to minimize exposed skin.
   • Opt for light-colored clothing as mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors.
4. Avoid peak mosquito activity:
   • Mosquitoes that transmit dengue are most active during early morning and late afternoon. Try to stay indoors or take precautions during these times.
   • If you need to be outside, use mosquito repellent and wear protective clothing.
5. Support community efforts:
   • Participate in community-based programs that aim to reduce mosquito breeding sites, such as clean-up campaigns or fumigation drives.
   • Encourage your neighbors to take preventive measures and raise awareness about dengue prevention in your community.
6. Maintain a clean environment:
   • Keep your surroundings clean and well-maintained to minimize mosquito breeding grounds.
   • Regularly trim tall grass and shrubs in your yard to reduce resting areas for mosquitoes.
7. Seek medical advice:
   • If you develop symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, or bleeding, seek medical attention promptly.
   • Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and take prescribed medications as directed.

Remember, dengue is primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, so by taking these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting dengue fever.

8. Travel precautions:
   • If you’re traveling to an area with a known dengue risk, take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
   • Research the dengue situation in your destination and follow local health advisories.
   • Stay in accommodations with proper mosquito control measures, such as screened windows and doors or air conditioning.
   • Use bed nets treated with insecticides if necessary.
9. Water management:
   • Ensure that swimming pools are properly maintained, chlorinated, and covered when not in use.
   • Change the water in pet bowls, vases, and other water containers regularly.
   • Clean and scrub water storage containers, such as water tanks and barrels, to remove mosquito eggs or larvae.
10. Personal awareness:
    • Educate yourself and your family members about dengue fever, its symptoms, and prevention methods.
    • Stay informed about dengue outbreaks or high-risk areas through local health authorities or reliable sources of information.
11. Support vector control measures:
    • Cooperate with local health departments in implementing vector control measures, such as fogging or spraying insecticides in high-risk areas.
    • Participate in mosquito surveillance programs or reporting systems to help identify and eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
12. Follow good hygiene practices:
    • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating or handling food.
    • Cover open containers, food, and drinks to prevent mosquitoes from coming into contact with them.
13. Stay hydrated:
    • Adequate hydration helps to maintain good health and immune function. Drink plenty of clean, safe water to stay hydrated and promote overall well-being.

Remember, prevention is key in controlling dengue fever. By implementing these guidelines and encouraging others to do the same, you contribute to reducing the risk of dengue transmission and protecting your community’s health.

14. Rainwater management:

• During the rainy season, ensure proper drainage around your home to prevent the accumulation of stagnant water.
• Repair any leaks or damaged pipes that can create puddles or standing water.

15. Support mosquito control efforts:

• Support community-wide efforts to control mosquito populations, such as larviciding or fogging campaigns organized by local authorities.
• Encourage neighbors and community members to actively participate in mosquito control initiatives.

16. Keep windows and doors screened:

• Install screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering your living spaces.
• Ensure that screens are in good condition and free from holes or tears.

17. Take precautions for children and infants:

• Use mosquito nets or screens over cribs, strollers, and play areas to protect young children from mosquito bites.
• Dress infants and children in clothing that covers their arms and legs, or use mosquito repellent as appropriate for their age.

18. Be aware of your surroundings:

• Be mindful of areas with a high density of mosquitoes, such as marshes, stagnant ponds, or areas with poor sanitation.
• Take extra precautions when visiting or working in these environments, such as wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellent.

19. Cooperate with healthcare authorities:

• Follow any guidelines or recommendations provided by healthcare authorities or public health agencies regarding dengue prevention and control.
• Participate in community education programs or workshops to learn more about dengue prevention and share knowledge with others.

20. Stay updated on vaccines and medical advancements:

• Stay informed about the availability and effectiveness of dengue vaccines in your region.
• Consult with healthcare professionals to understand if vaccination is recommended for you or your family members based on the prevailing guidelines.

Remember, dengue prevention requires collective efforts from individuals, communities, and healthcare authorities. By following these guidelines and promoting dengue awareness, we can help reduce the transmission of dengue fever and protect our communities from this mosquito-borne disease.