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Mosquito breeding increases rapidly during monsoon. Dengue outbreak is increasing in the cities of Karnataka, Kerala and Maharashtra. But if we remain alert, we can control this disease. Dengue fever causes sudden onset of fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands and rash. These usually appear 4-10 days after mosquito bites and can last for 2-10 days.
Rain and floods also increase the risk of diseases like dengue. When water accumulates in flooded areas, dengue mosquitoes start breeding there and cause dengue fever.
This can quickly turn into severe dengue, also called dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, when the number of clot-forming cells (platelets) in your bloodstream drops and your blood vessels become so damaged that they leak. This can lead to shock, internal bleeding and organ failure.
If you are experiencing any dengue-related symptoms, get a dengue NS1 antigen test, which measures the non-structural proteins of the virus, or a PCR test. Then get an IgM antibody test on the fourth or fifth day, when you are likely to have dengue.
If you have the symptoms mentioned above, get a complete blood count (CBC) done and repeat every other day to check platelet levels once diagnosed. One of the most important markers is PCV (packed cell volume), which is a measure of the viscosity of the blood. It can indicate an increase in red blood cells or dehydration.
Preventive measures against dengue
Mosquito repellent creams, liquids, coils, mats should be used.
Long sleeve shirts and pants should be worn along with gloves.
Newborns and children should use mosquito nets to avoid mosquito bites during the day.
The most important thing to avoid dengue is to stay away from mosquitoes. Do not let water accumulate around you for a long time. Keep your skin covered. Use a mosquito net while sleeping at night, keep your surroundings clean and stay healthy.