How to Prevent Dengue Fever: Tips for Staying Safe During Mosquito Season

As the monsoon season approaches, there is an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases, particularly dengue fever. Transmitted through the Aedes mosquito, dengue, if not detected early, can lead to fever, low platelet count, and organ damage.

Though timely tests for dengue are critical components in an effective treatment; the ideal approach is dengue fever prevention. Daily habits like using mosquito repellent or wearing protective clothing can lower the risk of dengue.

In this article, we’ll understand and learn how to prevent dengue and stay safe during the monsoon season.

What is Dengue?

Dengue is an infection caused by the bite of the infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. These mosquitoes are active during the monsoon season since stagnant water proves to be a breeding ground for them. The following sections explore how to prevent dengue and avoid risk.

Types of Dengue

Once an individual understands what is dengue, they can take the necessary steps towards dengue prevention. Dengue can be classified into the following types –

1. Dengue Fever
2. Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF)
3. Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS)

Causes of Dengue

Dengue spreads when the Aedes mosquito bites a person. Further, these mosquitoes become carriers after feeding on the blood of someone already infected. Here are some other causes of dengue –

1. Mosquito bites – The primary cause is the bite from an infected Aedes mosquito, which is active during daylight hours, especially early morning and late afternoon.
2. Stagnant water – Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water and are found in containers, flower pots, drains, and any place where water collects.
3. Warm and humid climate – These conditions accelerate mosquito breeding and increase the chances of dengue transmission.
4. Urban and semi-urban areas – Crowded living conditions with poor sanitation facilitate faster spread.

Symptoms of Dengue

Understanding the symptoms of dengue is the key step in its elimination. These symptoms generally appear 4 to 10 days after being bitten by the Aedes mosquito. The illness often starts suddenly and can range from mild to severe. A person infected with dengue fever can experience the following symptoms –

1. Pain behind the eyes
2. Muscle and joint pain (often called “breakbone fever”)
3. Nausea and vomiting
4. Fatigue and weakness
5. Skin rash (usually appears 2–5 days after fever starts)

Tips to Prevent Dengue

In the first quarter of 2025 alone, over 12,000 cases of dengue were reported in India. This underlines an urgent need for prevention of dengue. Moreover, with no specific antiviral treatment available, dengue fever prevention is essential to avoid major health concerns. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of dengue:

• Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites – The first step in dengue prevention is eradicating mosquito breeding sites. This can be done by cleaning drains regularly and keeping water tanks tightly covered.
• Use Mosquito Repellent – A good tip for how to prevent dengue is to use mosquito repellents like lemon eucalyptus oil, which keeps mosquitoes away.
• Wear Protective Clothing – Minimize skin exposure during peak mosquito activity by wearing full-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Install Mosquito Barriers – Physical protection is crucial for dengue prevention. Sleep under mosquito nets and shut the windows and doors during rain and in the evening.
• How to Prevent Dengue After Mosquito Bite – If a person experiences symptoms of dengue fever after being bitten, make sure to keep the bite area clean and avoid scratching. Stay hydrated, consult a doctor, and take the necessary tests for dengue fever to confirm or rule out infection.
• Support the Immune System – Although this is not directly related to dengue prevention, a strong immune system can help the body cope better with infections. Eat a vitamin C-rich diet, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion.
• Get Regular Health Checkups – Be aware of dengue symptoms and immediately get tests for dengue if needed.

Wrapping Up

With rising cases during the monsoon season, dengue is a significant health concern. Therefore, it’s important to understand what dengue is, its symptoms, and how to prevent dengue from being vigilant and safe. If a person experiences any symptoms, they must download the Dr Lal PathLab app and book tests for dengue immediately.

FAQs

1.How can I prevent dengue after a mosquito bite?

Clean the bite, monitor symptoms, stay hydrated, and get tested early to prevent complications from potential dengue infection.

2.When should I get tested for dengue?

It is advisable to get tested immediately if one experiences fever, body pain, or rash, especially during the mosquito season or after a bite.

3.How can one stop dengue mosquitoes from biting them?

One can prevent dengue mosquitoes from biting them by wearing full-sleeved shirts and long pants, applying mosquito repellants, and using mosquito nets.