Stagnant monsoon water is prime mosquito-breeding ground — dengue, malaria and chikungunya all peak in this season.
Prevention at home
- Coolers, pots, tyres, rooftop tanks — empty/dry them weekly
- The dengue mosquito bites by day — wear full sleeves and repellent
- Use bed nets and window mesh
- Report waterlogging around your home to the municipality/panchayat
Recognising symptoms
- Dengue: high fever, pain behind the eyes, severe body/joint pain, rashes
- Malaria: fever in cycles with shivering, sweating, weakness
Dos and don'ts
- Take only paracetamol for fever — never aspirin/ibuprofen without tests; they can be dangerous in dengue
- Plenty of fluids — ORS, coconut water
- Fever beyond 3 days, vomiting, bleeding gums/nose, falling platelets, severe stomach pain — go to hospital immediately
Government hospitals test and treat dengue-malaria free of cost.
