Civil surgeon seeks public support to fight dengue

In view of the increasing cases of dengue fever, the District Health Department has once again appealed to the people to not let water stagnate anywhere in and around their homes and to wear full body covering clothes. Civil Surgeon Dr. Adarshpal Kaur said that everyone needs to take precautions to prevent this deadly disease. If for some reason dengue fever occurs, there is no need to panic. The patient should visit government health facility where dengue test and treatment is absolutely free.

While soliciting cooperation and support of the people for the prevention of dengue, she said that only with the help of the people the district could be made dengue-free. She informed that the inspection and awareness campaign by the teams of District Health Department for the prevention of Dengue fever has been going on continuously since the month of March across the district. A total of 13 teams are regularly checking coolers, fridge trays, pots, empty tires, boxes and other containers etc. She said that the survey and awareness campaign in all the health blocks of the district is going on in full swing. . For any information, the health department’s helpline number 104 can be contacted.

The civil surgeon said, ‘It is important to understand that many are simple fevers that can be treated at home. Normally, platelet count goes down with most of the viral fevers and all the viral fevers should not be taken as dengue fevers. In case of dengue fever, good intake of fluids, healthy home food and complete bed rest is required.” She added that dengue patients have high fever for five to six days. Platelet count may drop after the fever ceases. She asserted that goat milk, kiwi fruit or coconut water do not help in increasing platelets in any way. The patient should consume maximum amount of fluids like water, juice, lemon water, coconut water etc. She said, ‘Drink at least two liters of water daily which is also beneficial for a normal healthy person. Fluids not only prevent dehydration but also provide essential nutrients to the body.”

Sudden high fever.

Severe headaches.

Pain behind eyes

Severe joint and muscle pain.

Skin rash

Fatigue

Nausea

vomiting

Remove water from coolers and other small containers at least once a week.

Keep overhead tanks covered

Drain off water from the back tray of refrigerator every week.

Use mosquito nets or mosquito repellents while sleeping during daytime.

Emptying and drying of water storage utensils on a weekly basis is important.

Keep surroundings clean and dry to prevent mosquito breeding.

Dispose of plastic, coconut shells and empty tins and cans.

Spray insecticides on outdoor containers and water puddles in and around your home.

Do not wear clothes that expose your arms and legs.

Children should not be allowed to play in shorts and half sleeved clothes.

Do not allow water to stagnate in bird feeding pots.