Top 7 Tips for Dengue Defense That Every Parent Needs To Know

It was the monsoon of 2011 when one day suddenly I felt sick. I had a fever of 104°F, a headache and severe muscle and joint pain. I was away from my home and my only support was my aunt. I somehow managed to reach her house and The Dengue Saga entered my life. I was infected twice since then and you can consider me a mini doctor (without a medical degree) on this subject!!!

With the advent of the monsoon season, the rise of Dengue cases can be found every year. Although New Delhi has registered 921 cases (as of 31 July 2023), the number is expected to rise in the coming days.

Dengue virus can be checked at home. But this does not mean we need to capture kids at home 24/7. As parents, we can follow some safety measures that can reduce the risk of dengue transmission. Here are the Top 7 Tips For Dengue Defense That Every Parent Needs To Know:

1. Dengue-Proof Home

Dengue mosquito breeds in stagnant water. If you identify water stored in flower pots, buckets, in your garden, pet bowls, clogged drains or any such possibility that could attract dengue mosquitos, drain the water the moment you see it.

Let the sunlight enter your home. These aedes mosquitos often breed in darker spots. While ensuring a well-lit home, a net on windows and doors can make your home free from the entrance of these mosquitos.

2. Proper Dressing- A Child’s Shield From Mosquito Bite

Parents can make sure that kids wear full-sleeved top wear, full pants and proper shoes while going out for play. This helps to prevent mosquito bites. Further, opting for light-coloured clothes also can be an add-on.

Make sure to apply mosquito repellent products so add an extra layer from mosquito bites. Apply repellent to exposed skin and clothing to provide a barrier against mosquitoes.

3. Avoid Outdoor Play during Peak Mosquito Activity

Outdoor play is essential for a child’s development, but it’s crucial to strike a balance between fun and prevention. Perfect timings for an Aedes mosquito bite are early mornings and late afternoons. Make sure kids are indoors during this time frame.

4. Use Mosquito Nets to Stay Safe Even During the Night

Although Dengue mosquitos are active during the daytime, their eggs can sustain for longer periods and we might be at risk even in the comfort of our homes. It is advisable to sleep under mosquito nets during the night to provide an extra layer of protection.

5. Educate and Debunk Myths Around Dengue

Some myths around Dengue fever are viral even more than the infection!!

We need to identify, educate one another and bust those myths right now. Let us discuss some myths :

• A One-Time Infection– No, dengue is not a one-time viral infection. It may worsen the second time. I can say this from my personal experience also. I have had a dengue infection twice and was admitted the second time.
• A Human Communicable Infection– Dengue is not an air-borne infection. Only an Aedes mosquito can transmit it. So parents you do not need to panic if someone at your home/ locality is affected by the virus. Although, proper steps must be followed to stay safe.
• Dengue can only breed in Slums/ dirty areas– Stagnant water in any form can be a breeding zone for dengue mosquitos. The female Anopheles mosquito lays eggs in water and stays in the darker areas (mostly indoors). It might be behind our curtains, under beds and in spots alike.
• Papaya Leaf is the perfect cure– No. It can only act as a supplement. Visit the doctor and act as suggested.

So we need to educate one another and be well-informed about the current situation of the outbreak. However, parents need not panic. Follow the instructions of your healthcare provider.

6. Do not Self-Medicate when infected by Dengue

I have witnessed people around me who take the risk of self-medication when any family member is infected by dengue fever. The most common medicine used is Paracetamol. Some even believe that self-tests and the report confirmation are all okay for dengue. There is more to it. Consulting a doctor should be the utmost priority as there are many facets of dengue. The blood sample report is a testimony of platelets count, the seriousness of the infection and further medication.

In my case, in the first round of dengue fever, the doctor advised me to stay home and follow his instructions. While in the second round, I was admitted to the hospital for a week. My Blood Platelet count was very low indicating a higher degree of seriousness.

7. A Healthy Diet Can Prevent and Cure Dengue

Nothing can beat a strong immunity. We as parents also need to focus on the diet of our kids to prevent dengue/ speed up recovery in case the infection has hit the child. Home-made (less oil) food and proper liquid intake can be a game changers. So prepare a diet chart that includes all the necessary nutrient-rich food. Drinking adequate water, coconut water and soups can be some fluid recommendations.

Some Product Recommendations that help to prevent Dengue:

1. Classic Mosquito Net for Double Bed

The Classic Mosquito Net for Double Bed is your go-to mosquito net. It is super handy and comes with a storage bag. It is easy to wash and super portable. The high-quality zips, double stitching lining and tightly woven nets make it a star product. So buy this high-rated Classic mosquito net for your family and be free from any mosquito bite during the night. It is also available in various sizes. To learn more about this product, click here.

2. HIT Anti Mosquito Racquet Rechargeable with LED Light

The HIT Anti Mosquito Racquet comes with 3500V DC Voltage on the net mesh that can instantly trap and kill mosquitos. It has a strong rechargeable battery capable of up to 200 times usage. The built-in LED light helps spot mosquitos even in the dark (dengue mosquitos generally breed in the dark corners of the house). The design is perfect for catching mosquitos from any corner. I have been using the Hit Anti Mosquito Racquet for a very long time. I am satisfied with all its features including the material and give it a five-star rating as a happy user. To learn more about the product, click here.

3. Odomos Mosquito Repellant Fabric Roll On

Odomos Mosquito Repellant Fabric Roll On is a Pediatrician Certified and Clinically Tested fabric roll-on which protects one from mosquitos for up to 8 hours. The Citronella and Eucalyptus Oil make it 100% Ayurvedic. It also does not leave any stain on the clothes. So it can be applied to anyone irrespective of age. In this monsoon season, apply this fabric roll-on on your kid’s clothes and be carefree from mosquito bites. To learn more about the product, click here.

Conclusion

Dengue fever can be alarming if not treated timely. Yet, we do not need to panic. With proper medication and a healthy diet, dengue can be prevented and cured. By following these top 7 tips, parents can keep a check on dengue this monsoon season.

“Please note that this article contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.”