As the monsoon rains soak cities and create puddles in the streets, they also call for a serious health concern: dengue fever. The increase in humidity and the presence of stagnant water during this season create ideal breeding conditions for Aedes mosquitoes, which are the primary carriers of the dengue virus. While the sound of rain can be soothing, it is crucial to remain alert and take proactive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Canva
Why does Dengue peaks during the monsoon?
Dr Nishant Bansal, Consultant Paediatrician & Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, earlier told FPJ, "Increased rainfall leads to the accumulation of stagnant water in various places such as puddles, containers, and discarded tyres, providing breeding grounds for mosquitoes."
He added, "The warm and humid climate during the monsoon also facilitates the rapid growth and multiplication of these mosquitoes, thereby increasing the risk of dengue transmission."
Heavy rainfall and inadequate drainage often lead to waterlogging in urban areas. "Accumulation of stagnant water due to heavy rainfall, poor drainage systems, increased outdoor activity, and lack of mosquito control efforts all contribute to the spread of dengue," stated Dr Bansal.
Early signs to watch out for
Dengue symptoms usually appear within 4 to 10 days after a bite from an infected mosquito and are often mistaken for the flu. Dr Bansal highlighted that these symptoms include:
High fever (up to 104°F or 40°C)
Severe headaches
Pain behind the eyes
Muscle and joint pain
Fatigue and nausea
Skin rashes (appearing 2–5 days after fever onset)
Mild bleeding (such as nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or bruising)
Practical Dengue prevention tips
To lower the risk of infection, the following precautions by the expert can go a long way, especially during peak monsoon:
Use mosquito repellents on skin and clothes
Wear long-sleeved clothing and full pants
Sleep under mosquito nets
Ensure water storage containers are tightly covered
Empty out water from plant pots, coolers, and buckets
Install mosquito screens on doors and windows
Use insecticide sprays or mosquito coils indoors
Managing Dengue at home
For mild dengue cases, supportive care is usually sufficient. Dr Bansal advised, "Ensuring adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, getting plenty of rest to help the body fight the infection, using acetaminophen (paracetamol) to reduce fever and relieve pain (while avoiding ibuprofen or aspirin), and monitoring for worsening symptoms are key."
When to seek emergency medical help?
As per medical experts, you should watch for warning signs that indicate a severe form of dengue (Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever), such as:
Severe abdominal pain
Vomiting that doesn’t stop
Bleeding from gums or nose
Blood in vomit or stool
Difficulty breathing
Extreme fatigue or restlessness
Canva
Dengue treatment: What works?
There's no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Recovery relies on rest, hydration, and fever management. Dr Bansal concluded, "Staying hydrated with oral rehydration solutions, using pain relievers like acetaminophen, and allowing your body to rest are essential."
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any concerns or questions regarding your health or medical condition.
