Nashik Reports Surge In Dengue Cases; Here's What You Should Do To Keep Yourself Safe

nashik reports surge in dengue cases; here's what you should do to keep yourself safe

The onset of monsoon has brought a respite from scorching heat but it has increased the risk of diseases like dengue and malaria. Nashik has recently experienced a surge in dengue cases, causing significant concern. As per the latest reports, 71 dengue cases were reported last week which took the total count to 165. Rainy season provides ideal breeding grounds for the Aedes aegypti mosquito which increases the vector-borne diseases. Hospitals in the region have seen an increase in patients with symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rashes, and mild bleeding.

So what should you do to keep yourself safe? How to reduce itchiness caused due to mosquito bites? Here we have listed some tips and measures to take to reduce the risk of dengue.

Tips To Keep Yourself Safe

Use Mosquito Repellent

The most efficient way to prevent dengue fever is to use mosquito repellent. These creams should not be applied more than 3 times a day and the duration of protection usually varies depending on the brand.

Wear Full-Sleeve Clothes

Wear full clothes that can cover you completely. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and closed-toe shoes instead of sandals.

Keep Windows And Doors Closed

The mosquitoes that carry the dengue viruses are most active from dawn to dusk and keep windows and doors closed during these hours.

Keep Surroundings Clean

Always keep the dustbins clean. Do not let any dirt get collected to avoid mosquitoes.

Use Light Camphor

Use light camphor as it will help you keep the mosquitoes away.

Repair Tanks And Pipes

Repair broken septic tanks and cover vent pipes with wire mesh if available at home.

Avoid Mosquito Prone Areas

Mosquitoes are tropical and humid climates, a description that applies to almost our entire country. Aedes mosquitoes are especially prevalent in urban and semi-urban areas.

How To Manage Itchiness Caused Due To Mosquito Bites

Reducing itchiness from mosquito bites is essential for comfort and preventing secondary infections. Here are effective ways to alleviate itchiness:

Creams To Reduce Itchiness:

- Antihistamine Creams: Apply over-the-counter antihistamine creams or lotions directly to the bite to reduce itching and inflammation.

- Calamine Lotion: Soothes itching and helps dry out the bite area.

- Hydrocortisone Cream: Reduces inflammation and relieves itching caused by mosquito bites.

Cool Compress:

- Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the bite area can numb the skin, reduce swelling, and alleviate itching.

Natural Remedies:

- Aloe Vera: The gel from aloe vera plants can soothe and cool irritated skin.

- Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, diluted tea tree oil can help reduce itching and prevent infection.

- Oatmeal Baths: Adding colloidal oatmeal to lukewarm bathwater can provide relief from itching and inflammation.

Oral Antihistamines:

Taking oral antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), or diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can help reduce itching and inflammation throughout the body.

Avoid Scratching:

Although tempting, scratching mosquito bites can lead to further irritation, break the skin, and increase the risk of infection. Keep nails trimmed short to avoid accidental scratching.