Dengue, now a seasonal menace every year in India, has arrived rather early this year in some parts of the country.
With health authorities gearing up for vector-borne diseases in the tricity, months before monsoons, it is important to be cautious.
According to the WHO, there are about 190 million cases of dengue worldwide with 96 million cases needing treatment. In India too, there is 25% increase each year, mainly attributed to heavier monsoons and ineffective preventive steps to check mosquito breeding.
A record number of cases were reported from Panchkula and Mohali last year, as a result of which the authorities concerned have already started sensitising residents to take precautionary measures.
In this scenario, what can be done? What steps can citizens take?
Dengue is a tropical disease that originates from four different viruses. Carried by the Aedes egypti mosquito, symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pains as well as skin rash. While there is currently no vaccine for dengue, it can be prevented by improving hygiene levels and prevention of mosquito breeding.
Dr Parvinder Chawla, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital Mohali, gives some useful information and tips below:
Why are some people more susceptible to Dengue?
What are the most commonly associated symptoms that could be associated with the onset of Dengue?
A probable diagnosis can be made by assessing:
The common tests used in dengue diagnosis are:
Suggested approach on Treatment:
If Dengue fever progresses to severe dengue, look out for these symptoms:
How to prevent dengue:
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