Amid incessant rainfall and heavy floods, dengue cases have surged in several states across India. Punjab has reportedly seen a 288.53% increase in dengue cases and 166.67% rise in chikungunya cases over the last 18 days. Reports also suggest that the number of dengue cases reached 93 in Noida and 98 in Ghaziabad on Sunday.
Dengue, as we know, is a viral infection transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, leading to flu-like symptoms, including high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, rash, and in more severe cases, causing dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening. When it comes to vector-borne diseases, prevention is better than cure. Therefore, in an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Vigyan Mishra, Chief of Lab, Neuberg Diagnostic, Delhi, will run us through the preventive measures and natural remedies that can help.
Dengue Prevalence
Dengue is most prevalent in countries with warm and humid climates, particularly in Southeast Asia, the Western Pacific, and the Americas. High-risk areas include countries like India, Brazil, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about half of the world's population is now at risk of dengue with an estimated 10-40 crore infections occurring each year.
Also Read: 7 Early Signs of Dengue You Should Not Ignore
The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that as many as 300.6 crore people, or 40% of the world's population live in dengue-prone areas.
As for India, an estimated 3.3 crore people are infected with the dengue virus each year, contributing to a third of the total global dengue burden, says the International Journal of Infectious Diseases.
How To Differentiate Between Dengue And Malaria
Dr Mishra says, “Dengue is spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which causes high fever, severe joint pain, and a rash,” adding, “Unlike Malaria, which causes cyclic fever, chills, and muscle pain through Anopheles mosquitoes, dengue's symptoms are intense fever with body pain and distinct skin rash.”
According to the doctor, knowing these differences helps distinguish between the two diseases, guiding appropriate medical care.
“To identify dengue, doctors recommend specific tests. The NS1 antigen test detects a protein in your blood, confirming early infection. Additionally, the IgM antibody test looks for specific antibodies your body produces when fighting dengue. These tests help differentiate dengue from other illnesses with similar symptoms, ensuring accurate diagnosis and timely treatment,” he adds.
Also Read: Dengue's Impact on Platelet Count and Expert Dietary Tips to Boost It
Natural Mosquito Repellents
Protecting yourself against dengue is key. Preventive methods include:
- Sleeping under insecticide-treated nets
- Wearing long-sleeved clothing and using window screens
- Eliminating stagnant water sources, which curbs mosquito breeding, as they lay eggs in standing water
- Vaccines can provide an extra layer of defence particularly in endemic regions
- Staying informed about local outbreaks and following health advisories can help one stay vigilant against dengue's threats
In addition, Dr Mishra shares some natural repellents that can prevent dengue infection. These include citronella, lemon eucalyptus, lavender, and neem oil.
“These plant-derived solutions emit odours detested by mosquitoes, reducing the risk of bites and potential disease transmission. Unlike chemical options, they offer a safer choice for individuals seeking protection. However, their efficacy might vary, necessitating more frequent reapplication,” the doctor shares.
A study published in the Australian Journal of Entomology found that mosquito repellents that contain tea tree oil are also effective against mosquitoes along with other bugs.
Conclusion
Dengue is a significant global health concern. Effective mosquito control measures, public awareness campaigns, and timely medical intervention are crucial in mitigating the impact of dengue and preventing its transmission. Research indicates that natural ingredients offer an effective method for repelling mosquitoes, which is particularly reassuring for those concerned about potential risks, especially among young children.