Dengue on the rise in Delhi – Common symptoms, preventive measures

New Delhi: Delhi has been witnessing a steep rise in dengue fever amid fear of a possible outbreak even as the total number of cases from the vector-borne disease victimised more than 900 people in recent weeks.

During the past couple of weeks of August alone, Delhi/NCR regions have reported an alarming rise in cases.

Dengue is a viral infection commonly spread by the Aedes mosquito. The virus is transmitted from one person to another by the bites of infected female mosquitoes. The Aedes mosquito is also responsible for the transmission of chikungunya.

This largely brings health concerns to the forefront and protection against the vectors becomes are first and foremost priority.

Given below are symptoms of dengue and chikungunya, which will help you diagnose your condition so that you can consult a doctor on time, along with some preventive measures.

Dengue symptoms

Dengue develops 5 to 6 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. It's symptoms are:

• Sudden onset of fever
• Headache
• Muscle and joint pain
• Rashes
• Pain behind the eyes
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Vomitting

Chikungunya symptoms

While chikungunya is different from dengue, it can often be mistaken for the latter since it has similar symptoms. They include:

• Fever
• Joint pain
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Joint swelling
• Rashes

Preventive measures

As there is no specific medicine to treat dengue and chikumgunya, the best way to keep the disease at bay is to prevent bites by infected mosquitoes. Following the below tips will help you keep mosquitoes away.

• Keep the surroundings clean
• Use mosquitoes repellents even when indoors
• Wear trousers and long-sleeved shirts, particularly at dusk
• Use air conditioning while sleeping to keep mosquitoes out at night
• If air conditioning is not available, use a mosquito nets while sleeping
• Avoid going out during dawn, dusk and early evening when mosquitoes are active
• Try to stay away from heavily populated residential areas
• Avoid exercising outdoors
• Use floor/table fans, since mosquitoes can’t fly at speeds above 20 mph
• Wear synthetic fibers
• Wear covering shoes
• Avoid floral perfumes and fragrances since mosquitoes are more attracted towards such scents