Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness that is a significant health concern in the Philippines, particularly in Bacolod. As parents, protecting our children from this disease is a top priority, especially during mosquito season. This guide provides practical and effective tips for preventing dengue in your household and community in Bacolod.
Understanding Dengue and Its Transmission
Dengue is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are most active during the daytime, particularly at dawn and dusk. The rainy season, with its increased rainfall and stagnant water, provides ideal breeding grounds for these mosquitoes, leading to a surge in dengue cases.
Practical Tips for Dengue Prevention in Bacolod
Here are some effective strategies to protect your family from dengue in Bacolod:
1. Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites (4S Strategy)
The most effective way to prevent dengue is to eliminate mosquito breeding sites around your home and community. The Department of Health (DOH) promotes the 4S strategy:
- Search and Destroy: Regularly search for and destroy potential mosquito breeding sites. This includes:
- Emptying containers that can collect rainwater, such as tires, flower pots, buckets, and gutters.
- Turning over empty containers to prevent water accumulation.
- Cleaning and scrubbing the sides of containers to remove mosquito eggs.
- Replacing water in vases and pet water bowls at least once a week.
- Self-Protection: Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites by:
- Wearing long sleeves and long pants, especially during dawn and dusk.
- Using mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Follow the product instructions carefully.
- Using mosquito nets, especially when sleeping during the day or night.
- Seek Early Consultation: If you or your child experience symptoms suggestive of dengue (high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, rash), seek medical consultation immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications.
- Say Yes to Fogging (When Necessary): Fogging can be an effective way to control mosquito populations during outbreaks. However, it should be used judiciously and in coordination with local health authorities.
2. Using Mosquito Repellent Effectively
Mosquito repellent is an important tool in preventing mosquito bites.
- Choose the Right Repellent: Look for repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). These are effective and recommended by health organizations.
- Apply Repellent Correctly: Follow the product instructions carefully. Apply repellent to exposed skin, avoiding contact with eyes, mouth, and open wounds. For children, apply repellent to your own hands first and then apply it to the child’s skin.
- Reapply as Needed: Reapply repellent according to the product instructions, especially after sweating or swimming.
3. Protective Clothing and Mosquito Nets
- Protective Clothing: Dressing children in light-colored long sleeves and long pants, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, can help reduce mosquito bites.
- Mosquito Nets: Using mosquito nets, especially when sleeping, provides an extra layer of protection against mosquito bites. This is particularly important for infants and young children.
4. Community Involvement
Dengue prevention is a community effort. Here are ways you can get involved:
- Participate in Community Clean-up Drives: Join community clean-up drives to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in your neighborhood.
- Educate Others: Share information about dengue prevention with your family, friends, and neighbors.
- Report Potential Breeding Sites: Report any potential mosquito breeding sites to local authorities.
Recognizing Dengue Symptoms
It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of dengue:
- High fever (often sudden onset)
- Severe headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Pain behind the eyes
- Rash
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mild bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, gum bleeding)
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you or your child experience any of these symptoms, especially high fever accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical consultation immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing severe dengue, which can be life-threatening.
Conclusion: A Collective Effort for a Dengue-Free Bacolod
Preventing dengue requires consistent effort and community involvement. By following these practical tips, we can create a safer and healthier environment for our children in Bacolod, especially during mosquito season. Remember, early detection and prompt medical attention are crucial in managing dengue effectively.
