Mosquito borne illness: an advisory

Many places in the country are seeing a sudden onset of mosquito menace.
Frequent changes in the weather pattern been identified as the primary
reason for this challenge. Mosquitos are known to transmit many viral
diseases; most common among them are Malaria & Dengue fever.
Authorities are taken necessary steps to address this issue. However, we
advise you to take precautionary steps to protect yourself from any mosquito
borne illness.
Dengue fever is a viral disease with symptoms including high fever, severe
headache, joint and muscle pain, and coughing. A rash often appears after
these symptoms develop.
Malaria is a serious disease caused by one of four species of a parasite
called Plasmodium. It is transmitted by mosquitoes that bite at night, during
the hours between dusk and dawn. These can be episodic and may include
fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea and
jaundice.

Prevention
Precautions should be taken to avoid and prevent mosquito bites. Reduce risk
by remaining in well-screened or air conditioned areas when possible.
Mosquitoes require water for the immature stages to develop. Any source of
standing water, big or small, can produce mosquitoes. To reduce the number
of mosquitoes in your neighborhood, it is important to eliminate any standing
water around your home
Prevent bites while outdoors:
Wear light-colored clothing that covers most of the body (long sleeves and

long pants).
Use insect repellent that contains DEET. Adults and children more than two

months of age can use preparations containing up to 35% DEET - the higher
the concentration, the longer it repels. Longer acting preparations are also
available. Reapply after swimming or excessive sweating.
Prevent bites while you are indoors or asleep:

Check that there is fly-wire on the windows.

Use insect spray to kill mosquitoes in your room.

Use mosquito coils or electric insecticide vaporizers if mosquitoes can get

into your room.

Note that air conditioning also repels mosquitoes.

There is no vaccine against malaria. Seek medical attention if you

develop a high fever, especially if you suffer "rigors" (shaking) or a
rash.