Ahmedabad: As the rain plays hide and seek during the monsoon season, the pauses in downpour lead to a rise in vector-borne diseases, as the mosquito population increases in stagnant water under hot and humid temperatures. The city is currently experiencing this pattern, with mosquito bites causing a surge in dengue infections among residents. Dr. Rakesh Joshi, medical superintendent of Civil Hospital, stated that 55 cases have already been reported in the first nine days of August.

In July, only 45 dengue cases were logged, but that number rose rapidly between August 1st and 9th, reaching 55 cases. City doctors report that while hospitalization rates remain relatively low, dengue cases have increased two to three times compared to the end of July.

Doctors have also noted a rise in cases from developing areas beyond SP Ring Road, including South Bopal and Shela, where open spaces, greenery, and ongoing construction projects provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

What is Dengue?

Dengue is a rapidly emerging, outbreak-prone viral fever transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. The disease typically develops in a person 5-6 days after being bitten by the mosquito. Dengue fever is known for its severe, flu-like symptoms and can be particularly dangerous if not treated promptly.

Common & Severe Symptoms of Dengue Fever:

Common signs and symptoms of dengue fever include an abrupt onset of high fever, severe frontal headache, and pain behind the eyes that worsens with eye movement. Patients may also experience muscle and joint pains, loss of taste and appetite, a rash resembling measles over the chest and upper limbs, as well as nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can be intense and debilitating, requiring careful monitoring and supportive care.

In more severe cases, symptoms can escalate to include frequent vomiting, sometimes with blood, bleeding from the nose, mouth, and gums, as well as skin rashes. The patient may become increasingly sleepy and restless, feel extremely thirsty, and have a dry mouth. Additionally, a rapid, weak pulse and difficulty breathing are serious indicators that immediate medical attention is necessary to prevent complications.

Preventing Dengue: Essential Measures to Take

Remove Stagnant Water Regularly: Stagnant water serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of dengue. Ensure there is no standing water in and around your home. If you use coolers, change the water at least once a week to avoid mosquito breeding. Check for stagnant water in garden containers or on rooftops. For water that stagnates on the road, it generally gets absorbed by the ground; if not, raise the issue with the local civic body.

Use Mosquito Repellents: Spray aerosol mosquito repellents during the daytime to prevent mosquito bites. This helps reduce the chances of contracting dengue, which is transmitted by mosquito bites.

Dress Appropriately: During dengue season, it is crucial to avoid wearing shorts and other clothing that exposes your arms and legs. Mosquitoes that transmit dengue fever are most active during the day, and exposed skin increases the likelihood of being bitten. For example, if you are going for a morning walk and encounter stagnant water likely infested with mosquitoes, wearing long sleeves, long pants, and socks provides a physical barrier that helps reduce mosquito bites, thereby lowering the risk of contracting dengue.

Protect Children: While adults often wear pants, jeans, or salwar, it is also important to ensure that children do not play in shorts or short-sleeved clothing. Dressing them in longer garments provides additional protection from mosquito bites.

Use Mosquito Nets or Repellents Indoors: When sleeping during the day, use mosquito nets or apply mosquito repellent creams to protect yourself from mosquito bites.