Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jul 23: District health officer (DHO) Dr Thimmayya stated, "For the past few months, district health officials have been identifying and destroying larval and mosquito breeding spots. With the rise of the monsoon season, the possibility of stagnant water increases, so we must constantly clean the water and eliminate larvae."
He further said, “In Dakshina Kannada, there are 365 active dengue cases: 167 in MCC limits, 70 in Mangaluru rural, 81 in Bantwal, 32 in Beltangady, 12 in Puttur, and 3 in Sullia. Every Friday is observed as a dry day, with the main objective of cleaning house premises and keeping them dry to prevent dengue. Households should prevent water logging, especially on terraces and in plates below flower pots. If anyone suffers from fever, they should immediately consult nearby clinics.
"We have also directed educational institutions to conduct dengue awareness sessions before morning prayers to educate students,” he said.
Dr Thimmayya also addressed concerns about the Nipah virus detected in Kerala. "There is no need to panic. We have sent a circular to all medical colleges, private organizations, and taluk district health officials to stay alert. We will conduct a meeting with the IMA and health officials to monitor people coming from Kerala to Mangaluru, as many students and workers come here for education and employment."
It may be recalled that viral fevers, including dengue, are on the rise in coastal districts due to intermittent rains. It is common for viral fever incidents to increase during the monsoon. However, this year the Dengue menace is more prevalent. Only 40 to 60% of cases are confirmed as Dengue through the CARD test. The number of Elisa test centers is limited in the Dakshina Kannada district. If all medical colleges and major laboratories, including Wenlock, provide testing facilities, more than 160 labs can be organized.
In individuals bitten by the mosquito, a normal fever is observed for three to five days before it reduces. More than 80% of patients recover at home within four days. Only 20% of people experience a recurrence of fever, so there is no need to panic during the first three days.
Zika is also spread by the same mosquito that transmits dengue, so both tests are conducted simultaneously. According to a report from the health department, most dengue cases are seen in children and youths. This higher incidence in youths is attributed to their frequent exposure to open air, which increases the likelihood of mosquito bites. Additionally, the spread of dengue can be accelerated if one student in a school or college is affected.
A study has shown that most affected individuals are in the age group of 20 to 40 years, with only a 2% fatality rate. Instructions had been sent to earlier colleges, schools, hostels, nursing education institutions, and building construction companies regarding guidelines for dengue, as per DHO Dr Thimmayya.
Dr Thimmayya had also cautioned earlier, "Nowadays, many people take painkillers when they have a fever. In the case of dengue, the white blood cell count drops. Taking over-the-counter painkillers can be fatal." He had also warned against drinking papaya leaf juice in case of dengue and advised against self-medication without consulting a doctor. Free treatment is available in government hospitals.