Mysuru: Community participation plays an important role in preventing the diseases, said Dr. Basavaraj, District Health Officer, Mysuru district.
Columbia Asia Hospital, Mysore in association with the District Health Office had organised an awareness programme on the prevention of dengue and other water-borne diseases. The initiative was undertaken to educate the citizens on the preventive measures and cures, especially with the expected monsoons.
Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Basavaraj, District Health Officer, Mysore said, “With the monsoon season approaching, dengue cases will be on a rise in the city. Early detection, with proper diagnosis and symptomatic treatment, can help in reducing the mortality caused by the virus. Community participation plays an important role in preventing the disease by keeping their vicinity clean and water stagnation, cleaning the flower vases and other water holding items as mosquitoes breed in them. The citizens need not worry, as dengue is entirely a preventable disease, and we are taking all the necessary measures to drive out the virus.”
“Early diagnosis of the fever is very important as dengue is a highly infectious disease and it’s an epidemic in around 100 countries. It spreads through a female mosquito which is infected by sucking the blood of a virus-infected person. After a week or so, the mosquito is capable of transmitting the virus to another healthy individual. Therefore, it is very essential for an individual to consult their nearest doctor if they witness any of the dengue symptoms and take the required tests immediately”, says Dr. Satish Kumar M G, Consultant Internal Medicine, Columbia Asia Hospital, Mysore.
“Not all patients with dengue virus in blood develop symptoms. Dengue fever can occur as mild febrile illness or with warning signs such as abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, drowsiness etc., or as severe case with shock and bleeding. Early diagnosis of progression from mild to severe disease is essential, with prompt initiation of complete treatment and therapy when necessary”, said Dr. Saritha Pavithran, Consultant Internal Medicine, Columbia Asia Hospital, Mysore.
Tips to prevent dengue which every individual and family should follow:
- Use mosquito repellents
- Stay covered as much as possible
- Use mosquito meshes at night
- Discard stagnant water
- Store water in vessels or tanks with lids
- Seek medical advice if symptoms are detected
- Stay indoors during dusk and dawn
- Keep your surroundings clean and tidy
