Many tropical places like Singapore face the persistent issue of mosquitoes and life-threatening diseases spread by them. Mosquitoes are the reason behind deadly viruses like Dengue fever, Zika, and Japanese B Encephalitis. Singapore being a tropical country, its climate is always humid and conducive for breeding mosquitoes. To safeguard you and your family from such harmful mosquitoes and diseases spread by them, Dengue prevention is necessary.
What are the causes of Dengue fever?
The species of mosquito that transmits Dengue fever via their bites is the infected Aedes mosquito. They are active during dawn and dusk. They prefer to breed in clean and stagnant water. This breed of Mosquitoes can be identified by black and white stripe marks on their body.
Symptoms and effects of Dengue fever
Once bitten by an infected Aedes mosquito, the disease can be easily transmitted to the host's body. If not treated soon and under proper observation, it can become life-threatening.
Common Symptoms of dengue fever include:
- Body aches and joint pains
- Fever
- Intense headache
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Mucosal bleeding
- Skin rashes
Dengue fever can lead to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever. As there is no specific treatment for this as of yet, only proper Dengue prevention and Mosquito control is feasible.
How to safeguard from Dengue fever?
Tropical countries are prone to breeding of mosquitoes and require proper steps for Dengue prevention and control. It is vital to take necessary and immediate steps to prevent yourself and your family from Dengue even if you live nearby an area that is recognized as a dengue cluster.
Mosquito repellents: Mosquito repellents, especially the ones that have DEET in them, are very effective in eliminating mosquitoes. You can use it to apply on your exposed skin areas. Skip the areas of skin that have any irritation, wounds or cuts. Avoid applying it near eyes or mouth, but apply efficiently near your ears. While using a mosquito spray, avoid directly spraying it on the face. Instead spray on your hands and then apply on your face. Later you can wash off your hands clean.
Prevent breeding of mosquitoes: Mosquito species that spread the dengue fever breeds in clean stagnant water. They can be found in areas such as flowerpots, blocked rooftops, drain sewers, old worn-out tyres etc. Clean rooftop drainages or gutters regularly to avoid blockages. You can clear all the stagnant water and add BTI insecticide or sand granular insecticide to prevent breeding.
Avoid areas prone to mosquitoes: Singapore is a hot and humid country and has prime conditions for mosquitoes to breed. Avoid visiting areas prone to mosquitoes, especially neighbourhoods identified as Dengue clusters. Wear clothing that has long sleeves and trousers to cover as much skin area as possible.
Mosquito screens and traps: Installing mosquito screens on doors and windows of the house can be quite useful as they can prevent mosquitoes from entering your house. The first step towards Dengue prevention and control includes utilizing these nets and traps.
Eliminate stagnant water areas: Clear any clutters, puddles or pools of standing water in your compound to keep your household free of mosquitoes.
Read More >> How to Prevent Dengue from Spreading?
Final Thoughts
Over time, there has been a drastic rise in the breeding of mosquitoes due to fluctuating temperatures and humid weather. Bites from mosquitoes are often neglected and underestimated. However, if not treated properly and immediately the health effects can be quite severe.
As prevention is better than cure, it is always good to be prepared to keep yourself and your family safe, especially in tropical regions like Singapore where the climate serves to be the perfect condition for mosquitoes to breed. Protect your family & community from Dengue with the ORIGIN 3+1 Mosquito Programme. ORIGIN Exterminators are Leading & Most Trusted Provider of Residential & Commercial Mosquito Pest Control Services in Singapore.
