Early Times Report
JAMMU, Sept 14: As the monsoon season brings a spike in Dengue cases, the Directorate of Health Services Jammu has issued an advisory to raise awareness among the community about the prevention and control of the disease. With the slogan "Know Dengue for No Dengue," the advisory stresses the importance of understanding the disease to prevent its spread.
Dengue is a viral illness transmitted through the bite of the Aedes mosquito and can manifest in three forms: Dengue Fever, Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF), and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS). While Dengue Fever presents as a severe flu-like illness, DHF and DSS are more severe forms that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
According to the advisory, common symptoms of Dengue include:
High-grade fever
Frontal headache
Pain behind the eyes, which worsens with eye movement
Muscle and joint pains
Rashes on the body
Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
In more severe cases like DHF, additional symptoms include bleeding from gums and nose, blood in vomit or stools, and small hemorrhagic spots on the skin. DSS cases may further include cold clammy limbs, low blood pressure, and shock.
To prevent Dengue, the advisory emphasizes avoiding water stagnation in and around homes, as stagnant water serves as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Key prevention steps include:
Regularly emptying water containers like storage utensils, air coolers, plant pots, and bird baths
Disposing of junk items such as old tires, coconut shells, and disposable bottles
Keeping water tanks and containers tightly covered
Using mosquito repellents and anti-mosquito creams
Wearing clothes that cover arms and legs, and using mosquito nets while sleeping
Installing netted screens on doors and windows to prevent mosquito entry
Avoiding sleeping on terraces
The advisory urges individuals with symptoms to seek medical attention at the nearest government health institution, where free tests and treatment are available. It discourages self-medication and the use of painkillers without medical consultation. As a first aid measure for high fever, patients can take Paracetamol and perform tepid sponging.
Most Dengue cases are mild and manageable at home, with only 5% of patients requiring hospitalization. Patients are advised to maintain proper hydration by drinking coconut water, lassi, fruit juices, ORS, and to consume fresh fruits and vegetables. Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided during recovery.
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