Dengue Alert!

The outbreak of dengue fever in North Cotabato is very alarming. It attacks young and old alike and there are already reports of deaths in neighboring town. I was totally worried too because my family and kids reside in this area. I am not sure if the municipal government has done something like "fogging" the entire area to help eliminate the killer mosquito!

I received an overseas call today informing that my second child was not spared by the attack. It surprised me with a bit of shock which made me worry all day. It is just my hope and prayer that Titus will fight the illness and recover soon. When a plague hits a certain place, I know that no one is exempted. The least we can do is to be vigilant and must know the necessary strategies to prevent dengue fever from striking.

What is Dengue fever (DF)?
Dengue infection is a flu-like illness spread by the bite of an infected female mosquito “Aedes aegypti” or commonly known as dengue fever.
Occasionally the patient suffering from dengue may develop bleeding in the nose, gums or skin. Sometimes, the patient may have coffee ground vomiting or black stools. This indicates bleeding in gastro intestinal tracts and it is serious.
When should I suspect Dengue?
When you have a sudden onset of fever usually 39-40 degrees Celcius, Dengue should be suspected. It is accompanied with pain behind eyes, body aches, severe headaches, nausea and rash on the skin. The fever lasts for 5-7 days and comes down on 3rd to 4th day but comes back again. Often this illness leaves a feeling of discomfort after illness. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor right away.

Precautions:

To prevent the mosquitoes from multiplying, ensure that all premises are clean and kept from mosquito breeding sites. Drain out the water from drums, buckets, tanks, and coolers/window air coolers, etc. (when not in use).
Remove all objects containing water (e.g. vases etc.) from the house. Collect and destroy discarded containers in which water collects e.g. bottles, plastic bags, tins, used tyres etc.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites!
Dengue mosquitoes usually bite during day time. Highest biting intensity is about 2 hours after sunrise and before sunset.Wear full sleeves clothes and long dresses to cover as much of your body as possible.

Use repellents(Off! Clip-On Mosquito Repellent) be careful in using them in young children and old people.

To prevent dengue you may use coils and electric vapour mats during the daytime. Use mosquito nets to protect children, old people and others who may rest during the day.

More information on Dengue Fever: here