Many people take dengue, a disease from mosquitoes, for granted. There are instances where you’ll probably be asymptomatic but in cases where you are not, your symptoms will definitely bother you. Some initial symptoms that usually show are joint pain, high-grade fever, and rashes.
Although not everyone experiences serious complications, those who do mostly lead to shock or worse, death. This is what is known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS).
This disease is common in the Philippines given that it is a tropical country. With this, there is merit in always being cautious, especially inside your house where family members spend most of their days. To help you battle this out, here are 10 tips that can guide you in avoiding dengue at home.
Read more: Tips to stay healthy during the rainy season
Tip #1: Install insect screens
It is a must to always keep your doors and windows closed to prevent insects from entering your home. However, it’s not the most sustainable move as it stops the air from circulating around your house. The best way to avoid this while keeping the mosquitos out is to install insect screens instead. Don’t forget to place one in the air vents as well as these are openings often missed out by homeowners.
Tip # 2: Avoid stagnant water
Mosquitos are known to breed in stagnant water. Surprisingly, all it takes is a size of a coin for them to do so. With this, it is vital to wipe and throw any stagnant water there may be – from flowerpot plates, vases, plates, roof gutters, and more.
Tip #3: Wear protective clothing
You don’t have to wear pants and long sleeves all the time inside your house. However, it is recommended to take this precaution if you know that there is a dengue breakout in your area.
You may also pair this with an application of mosquito repellant so that all areas of your body are secured from any mosquito bite. Don’t forget to spray some over your clothes as well for added protection.
Tip #4: Invest in mosquito nets
Mosquito nets are not usually used in most households but this is one of the most effective shields out there to keep mosquitos away. Another benefit of having this tool is that it gives you peace of mind. Since you know that you’ll be protected throughout, you’ll be free of worry and it will be easier to go to sleep.
Tip #5: Ensure that your home is well-lit
Believe it or not, mosquitoes are attracted to dark areas. If you have a place in your home, whether it is a room or even a corner that does not experience the rays of the sun, then it is now time to rearrange your room or provide alternative light.
On the first item, you should reassess the placement of each piece of furniture in your room. Some, such as cabinets or tables, might have covered the sources of sunlight. If the placement of your things is not the problem, then it’s time to be resourceful and spearhead your own alternative light source. It can be as simple as adding a lamp in the dark corner or replacing your bulb with a brighter one for added coverage.
Tip #6: Religiously clean areas with large bodies of water
If you have pools, fountains, and other areas with large bodies of water, you have to be wary as these can also be breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Make sure to regularly clean these places every day as possible. Religiously replace the water as well by draining it on a weekly basis.
Tip #7: Maximize mosquito deterrents
There are various ingredients or items that repel mosquitoes. One example of a useful exercise is to add a drop of lemongrass or citronella to water when wiping and cleaning any surface at your home. There are also electronic vaporizers that you can buy that usually keep these insects away from the house.
Tip #8: Steer clear of smells that attract mosquitoes
Surprisingly, mosquitoes are attracted to both perfume and sweat. With this in mind, it is recommended to groom yourself regularly. Instead of using creams and perfumes that exude wild scents, better to maximize unscented ones. Don’t forget to shower every day as well to constantly remove the smell of sweat.
Tip #9: Practice proper waste disposal
Dirt gets the attention of mosquitoes and one of the dirtiest areas in your home is trash cans. Better to use bins that are closed to keep the stench inside but always remember to dispose of your trash every day to avoid any build of smell in the area. It is also a good practice to segregate your trash to prevent any cross-contamination of items – a way to keep mosquitoes out of the house.
Tip #10: Stay updated about dengue
It is important for families to stay updated about dengue – whether these are dengue status updates in the area or just general knowledge about the disease. Familiarizing yourself with the symptoms, effects, and precautions of dengue will contribute to your fight against this debilitating disease.
Keep in mind that prevention is always better than cure. Don’t wait for you to show early stages of symptoms and face hospitalization. Instead, employ all of the tips above for a more peaceful home living away from the deadliness of mosquitoes.
If you feel anything wrong, visit a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment.
