The rainy season is definitely a refreshing respite after
the blistering summer. However, it also comes with several illnesses and
diseases and the most dreaded of all is dengue. Dengue is caused by a tiny bite
of an infected mosquito but this little bite can cause serious health problems
and could even mean death if not treated immediately.
“Due to the wet season, dengue-carrying mosquitoes lurk
everywhere. As of now, there’s still no vaccine for dengue fever so the best
course of action is prevention. You can do this by applying mosquito repellent,
removing breeding grounds of mosquitoes and most importantly, keeping the
immune system strong,” says Dr. Montoya, MediCard president and CEO.
To avoid serious health complications that dengue brings,
MediCard, a leading HMO provider, gives a rundown on how to prevent it this
rainy season:
Eliminate the mosquito habitat. Studies show that the
most common breeding ground of mosquitoes is stagnant water. That’s why the
most important step in getting rid of dengue-carrying mosquitoes is eliminating
possible breeding grounds. These include spare tires, uncovered buckets and
cans, flower vases and pots. It is also advised to empty and cover swimming
pools.
Mosquito-proof your home. Another way to prevent dengue is
by making your home dengue-proof by putting screens on the doors and windows.
If possible, use an air conditioner at home. Make sure you sleep indoors, in a
screened or air-conditioned room or under a mosquito net. Ward off mosquitoes
by growing plants like citronella, marigold, and basil or use citronella or
eucalyptus oil as air freshener. If you’re using pails in the bathroom, make
sure they are always covered. Also remember to unclog the gutters and
cover your trashcan because wet garbage or kitchen waste
is another breeding area for mosquitoes.
Wear protective clothing. You can protect yourself from
harmful mosquito bites by minimizing areas of exposed skin. Wear long sleeves,
pants, and socks whenever you visit mosquito-infested places. However, avoid
wearing dark clothes because they radiate heat which can attract mosquitoes.
Apply mosquito repellent. Protect yourself from mosquito
bites especially when outdoors or when you go to mosquito-infested areas by
applying mosquito repellent to all exposed areas of your skin. Dr. Montoya
recommends that you use mosquito repellent with 10% concentration of DEET, an
active ingredient that effectively deters mosquitoes.
Keep the immune system strong. The immune system fights
viruses and infections, which is why it’s important to keep it strong to
prevent dengue. Eat food rich in vitamin C like orange, tomatoes, papaya,
broccoli, and dark leafy vegetables. “Food that is packed with vitamin C helps
increase white blood cells, which protects the body from against infectious
diseases and foreign invaders,” says Dr. Montoya.
Learn more on how to prevent dengue fever. MediCard has
numerous free-standing clinics located in key cities nationwide that offer
consultations, tests and vaccinations. Visit a MediCard clinic near you or
check out www.medicardphils.com for more information.
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