Dengue Patrol SMKDMPR2 -Special info from Encik Zainuddin - Health Department Tanah Merah

Special info from Dr Nik  - Health Department Tanah Merah

Awareness is the first step in prevention. People should make sure they are aware of whether there is a risk of dengue infection and be ready to protect themselves if they are travelling to a region where infection is common

Vector control

The multiplication of the mosquito that carries the dengue virus can be prevented by ensuring all areas are clear of potential breeding sites.

Aedes aegypti mosquitoes breed near water and lay their eggs in the walls of water containers, so these insects are common near water cisterns, unsealed septic tanks, decorative fountains, discarded tyres and bottles or boats and other vehicles that may collect water while stationary.

What is the best prevention of mosquito bites?

A single bite from the Aedes aegypti mosquito is often enough to transmit the dengue infection and adequate protection against mosquito bites is important. Simple precautionary measures such as wearing clothes that cover the whole body, sleeping under a mosquito net at night and using an insect repellent can help to prevent bites.

Unlike the malaria-carrying Anopheles mosquito, which mainly feeds between 5pm and 9am, the Aedes aegypti mosquito tends to bite during the day and these prevention methods therefore need to be applied by day.