Dengue Fever

Definition

Dengue Fever is a disease caused by the Dengue virus. The virus is primarily transmitted to human body by an infected female Aedes mosquito, more particularly Aedes Aegypti. Those mosquitoes typically breed in standing water of mostly man-made containers in or close to the home. Aedes aegypti is a daytime feeder; its peak biting periods are early in the morning and in the evening before dusk. Female Aedes aegypti bites multiple people during each feeding period.

Prevention

One of prevention is by killing mosquitoes through fogging and mosquito repellents. However it is not an absolute method of prevention since neither of these will affect the larvae stage. The most appropriate method to prevent dengue fever is by eradicating the larvae as follows:

• Drain water storage containers (tub, drum, etc) every week.
• Close water storage containers tightly after use to avoid any mosquitoes from entering and breeding.
• Change water in flower vases and pots every day.
• Discard or bury any plastic containers, bottles, cans, or any used items which could collect rainwater.
• In the event that it is not possible to drain the water weekly from reservoirs or storage containers, sprinkle larvacide (i.e. Abate powder) into the water to kill the larvae. Repeat this once every 2-3 months. 

Another alternative prevention is keeping larvae-eating guppy fish in the storage containers, and of course continuously and actively observe, monitor, and eradicate the larvae.

Meanwhile, there are some activities that might keep you and your family away from adult mosquitoes, include:

• Install mosquito nets on windows or other ventilation,
• Eliminate places for adult mosquitoes to hide, such as clothes hanging on the backs of chairs, doors, etc.
• Provides sufficient room ventilation and lighting.
• Use mosquito nets around bed when sleeping.

The Use of Larvacide (Abate powder)

Abate powder can be purchased at the pharmacy. Water treated with Abate is safe to drink if standard disinfecting precautions are taken.

One gram of Abate powder should be added to every 10 liters of water, therefore it needs 10 grams of powder for 100 liters of water and so forth. If it is difficult or unable to measure the exact amount then you can use a spoon. One pressed-tablespoon (where the top surface is leveled) will be equal to 10 grams of Abate.

Signs and Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Be alert of the following signs and symptoms since everyone is at risk for Dengue Fever.

1. High fever (40˚ C) for two to seven days
2. Headache
3. Joint and muscle pain
4. Pain behind the eyes
5. Stomach problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
6. Skin rash
7. Occasional nose bleeding or passing of black stools
8. Occasional pain in the epigastric or upper stomach area
9. May appear anxious and be sweating while having cold hands and feet

What should be done if symptoms and signs occur?

If you feel Dengue Fever symptoms and signs, you should take the following actions:

1. Keep you well hydrated.
2. Sponge down with a moist cold towel.
3. Take fever reducing medication (paracetamol or acetaminophen – NO ASPIRIN or NSAIDs).
4. Urgently seek medical attention from the doctor, clinic, or hospital, especially if  you feel cold and clammy.