Recently, we have been seeing a surge in dengue cases across the country. In fact, Delhi is currently witnessing the highest number of dengue cases in three years. As we all know, mosquito bites are the primary cause of dengue fever. Though this mosquito-borne disease is not contagious among humans, you do need to take precautions. After all, prevention is better than cure. Here are a few dengue fever prevention tips to follow.

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1. Mosquito repellent is key

Dengue fever has no approved vaccine yet, so the only way to prevent it is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes. With the onslaught of the winter in Delhi, mosquitoes are having a party, and you need to ensure you don’t end up becoming a snack for them. Lather yourself up in mosquito repellent lotion or get yourself a mosquito net to keep mosquitoes at bay. You can also use mosquito patches on your clothes if you don’t want to use lotion.

2. Stay away from mosquito breeding grounds

When you are outside the house, avoid places like open manholes and uncovered sewage drains as these are hot breeding spots for mosquitoes. Within your house, ensure you don’t create any possible breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Don’t leave unwashed dishes for too long. Cover the utensils in which you collect water. Clean your floors regularly.

3. Avoid mosquito friendly scents

Avoid perfumed soaps and lotions as they attract mosquitoes to you like bees to honey. Instead, stock your home with some lemongrass, neem, or basil, as these act as natural mosquito repellents.

4. Wear full-sleeved clothes

Try to wear full-sleeved tops and long pants to avoid mosquito bites. Wearing full-sleeved, loose clothes minimises skin exposure to mosquitoes and is a comfortable option in the season when it’s neither hot nor cold.

5. Consume immunity-boosting food

While prevention against dengue is something you need to take care of, you also need to take care of your immunity. COVID-19 has already made it clear that good immunity is the key to good health. Eat more immunity-boosting food items like citrus fruits, broccoli, garlic, ginger, and spinach. Add turmeric to your diet as it is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties. This won’t just help with dengue fever prevention, but your overall health as well.

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