This is the season of mosquitoes, beware of these diseases

The rainy season is when the mosquitoes and the infections and diseases they bring become active. Do not become complacent when it comes to the cleanliness of your surroundings. Read about these deadly diseases that the mosquitoes spread and take precautions.
mosquito

The rainy season is when the mosquitoes and the infections and diseases they bring become active

New Delhi: Come rains and we are all elated. What a relief they bring from the scorching summer months. The water and greenery are soothing for the eyes and soul. However, monsoons cause havoc when it comes to infections and diseases as they spread like wildfire.
Viruses, bacteria, and fungi thrive during the rainy season. Mosquitoes also have a field day spreading dangerous diseases like Malaria, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, Chikungunya, Zika virus, West Nile virus, and many others. Most of these diseases are spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.
During the monsoon, mosquitoes lay eggs in or near the standing water. These breed and spread infections. When a mosquito feeds on blood, it also takes all the viruses or parasites that are transferred to the next person it bites through the saliva, spreading the diseases.
Let's take a look at the mosquito-borne diseases and how to curb their spread.
  • Malaria: Half of the world's population suffers from malaria outbreaks every rainy season. The symptoms include high fever, chills, dizzy spells, body aches, and even vomiting.
  • Dengue: Another recurrent disease that causes rashes, bleeding gums and severe stomach aches apart from fever, headaches, and bruises. If not treated in time, dengue can also lead to hemorrhagic fever, which can even be fatal.
  • Zika virus: For most people, the symptoms of Zika virus are mild, with fever, joint pains, and redness in the eyes. But it can be menacing for pregnant women and small children.
  • Yellow fever: The disease is denoted by its symptoms that include jaundice which makes your skin pale and eyes look yellowish. There is now a vaccine to prevent yellow fever.

How to deal with mosquitoes and diseases?

The only way to save yourself from these life-threatening ailments is to finish off any breeding grounds for mosquitoes. A few easy steps to take before the rains begin are:
  • Use insect repellents when indoors or outdoors
  • Wear long-sleeved clothes
  • Do not venture out much during dusk, when the mosquitoes become active
  • Get nets put on the windows and keep the doors closed
  • Do not let any standing water collect near your house
  • Keep your surroundings clean
  • If down with fever and cold, rush to the doctor without any delay.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
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