Explainer: Identifying And Preventing Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya
- By: Ashish Maharishi
- Published: Jul 29, 2024 at 05:52 PM
- Updated: Sep 30, 2024 at 03:33 PM
New Delhi. With the arrival of the monsoon season, parts of the country have seen a significant surge in mosquito-borne diseases. The number of dengue, malaria, and chikungunya patients have spiked suddenly. By taking certain precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from these deadly diseases.Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which accumulates in homes and surrounding areas. They lay their eggs in this water, and the eggs develop into larvae and, eventually into adult mosquitoes. If not managed promptly, these diseases may turn severe and sometimes fatal.
Dengue, malaria and chikungunya are vector-borne diseases spread through mosquito bites.
What are mosquito-borne diseases?
According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mosquito-borne diseases are transmitted to humans through an infected mosquito. These diseases can be prevented by repelling mosquitoes or taking other preventive measures.
Causes
During the rains, there is a significant surge in mosquitoes breeding from larvae. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, so experts advise preventing water from accumulating in and around homes. If you have coolers or potted plants, ensure that water does not accumulate there.
Symptoms and Prevention
Dengue, Chikungunya, and Malaria are all caused by mosquito bites, but their symptoms vary. Let’s list the differences between these diseases:
Dengue
Dengue is a vector-borne disease which, If not treated in time, can even lead to death. Dengue patients typically experience symptoms like fever, reduced appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Pain in the limbs is also common along with severe headaches and eye pain. In extreme cases, red rashes may also appear on the skin, and platelet levels can drop rapidly.
The Centre for Community Medicine of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has prepared a document on dengue fever’s causes, treatment and prevention. According to the said report, Dengue is prevalent in India from July to October because the conditions during this period are ideal for mosquito breeding. Therefore, it is crucial to take all the necessary precautions, especially during this time.
Chikungunya
In Chikungunya, patients often develop light red rashes on their skin, accompanied by body stiffness. Unlike dengue, chikungunya does not lead to a reduction in platelet count and the main symptoms are joint pain, high fever, headaches, and dizziness. These symptoms can persist for weeks or even months.
Malaria
According to the National Center for Vector Borne Disease Control, malaria causes fever, headache, vomiting, and other flu-like symptoms. The parasite infects and destroys Red Blood Cells (RBCs), resulting in anaemia, seizures/convulsions, and fatigue. Malaria contracted during pregnancy poses a great risk to the mother and the foetus. Pregnant women are less able to deal with and cure malaria infection, which can have an adverse effect on the unborn foetus. Malaria often causes chills and may lead to symptoms, such as constipation, nervousness, and restlessness.
Dr. DK Gupta, Chairman, Felix Hospital, Gautam Budh Nagar, said the biggest cause of the spread of mosquito-borne diseases is stagnant water. Larvae grow easily in stagnant water, leading to an increase in dengue cases during the monsoon season every year. To prevent it, remove stagnant water from coolers, pots, or other places in the house. Also, ensure there is no stagnant water at public places or grounds nearby.
Preventive Measures:
●Do not allow water to accumulate in or around the house.
●Keep the windows and doors shut and install nets on them.
●Use mosquito repellent day and night.
●Wear full length clothes at home and when sending children to school or to play.
●Sleep under a mosquito net.
Dr. Gupta cautioned that children and the elderly are more vulnerable because their immune systems are weaker than healthy adults.
Paediatrician Dr Rajiv Ranjan, Nidan Mother and Child Care, told Vishvas News that some oils, like peppermint oil, clove oil, and citronella oil, have been proven to repel mosquitoes away for 8-11 hours after application. He emphasised that improving immunity can aid the body in fighting these diseases.
Dr Ranjan also recommended a diet plan for such patients:
●Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
●Include lentils, soybeans, cottage cheese and eggs in your diet.
●Ensure your diet has sufficient vitamins and fibre.
●Regular consumption of amla-based Chyawanprash helps boost immunity.
Disclaimer: This article includes inputs from experts and is intended for informational purposes only. Dengue, malaria, and chikungunya are mosquito-borne diseases and if you observe any symptoms, please consult a doctor immediately.
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