Dengue cases have been on the rise for months. But as we venture into May – September period, AKA the warmest period, the risk of contracting this disease increases tenfold. Just last week, we have had 529 cases, which is an increase of 22 cases from the week before. As of 18 May 2020, there are 136 active dengue clusters reported islandwide. With the circuit breaker still going on, NEA warned a higher risk of dengue in homes during this period. Therefore, it is incredibly important to know the dangers, warning signs, and measures that we can take to prevent it.
PREVENT IT FROM BREEDING
Mosquitoes are tricky little things. Sometimes you would not realize that you have been bitten until you see a red bump on your skin. That is when the itch would start. With dengue, it is trickier. It can be breeding in your own homes without you realizing it. This is why it is important for you to know its breeding grounds and prevent it from happening. Anywhere with still water should be cleaned to prevent it from breeding there. Always be sure to check your toilets and plant pots for still water.
HOW TO SPOT DENGUE FEVER
You might not know that you have been bitten by Aedes mosquito until after you’ve developed some symptoms. Usually, it will take 3 to 14 days for symptoms to start showing. The warning signs include, but not limited to:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Sudden cold temperature (below 38 degrees C)
- Sudden high temperature (above 38 degrees C)
- Persistent vomiting
- Rapid breathing
- Gums and nose bleeding
Those with these symptoms should be given medical attention immediately so that they can get the care they need. To be safe, be sure to seek medical attention as soon as you feel off or think you might have contracted dengue.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT IT
The easiest way to prevent getting mosquito bites is to have mosquito repellent on you. There are a lot of options on the market, from sprays and stickers to oils and bracelets. But there is also the natural option using essential oils.
Essential oils are known to have many amazing benefits and being a natural mosquito repellent is one of them. Oils like Eucalyptus, Lemon, and Lemongrass has proven to provide up to 95% protection against mosquitoes for as long as 3 hours.
- Eucalyptus Oil
This oil has a strong woody and sweet scent and is believed to confuse mosquitoes’ sense of direction and taste, which prevents it from locating and attacking you. Additionally, it acts as an antiseptic should you have been bitten.
- Lemon Oil
This oil works similarly to Eucalyptus and it works best with it as well. Lemon and Eucalyptus are a wonderful combination for mosquito repellent as it has been proven to provide reliable, strong, and long-lasting effects at protecting you against dengue.
- Lemongrass Oil
Last but certainly not least, Lemongrass. This oil has a fragrant scent that is said to be a good natural repellent, giving the user up to 98.8% protection against mosquitoes. It also has antipyretic properties that can bring down high fevers and has antimicrobial properties which can help to ease the effects of certain diseases caused by microbial or bacterial infections.
You can dilute these oils in carrier oils in order to apply it topically or blend it all together (with a base oil) to create the best mixture for mosquito repellent.
You can also mix equal parts of each essential oil and add it to a candle burner or vaporizer. If you want to use it as a spray, simply add the oil in water and shake it well. You can use this mixture for curtains or clothing.
You can get your hands on these oils at our eStore now to create your own sweet-smelling mosquito repellent.
Want to read more? Check out similar posts below:
Keeping Insects Away Naturally
4 Essential Oils That May Work Better Than Your Insect Repellent