Hyderabad, August 2025:
Monsoon showers bring relief from the heat, but they also increase the risk of seasonal illnesses. Among them, dengue fever remains one of the most dangerous vector-borne diseases affecting children, elderly, and people with low immunity. Doctors warn that stagnant water in coolers, tires, and open containers becomes a breeding ground for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes—the primary carriers of dengue.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. It does not spread directly from person to person, unlike the common flu. The risk peaks during the rainy season when water stagnation allows mosquito populations to multiply rapidly.
Common Symptoms of Dengue
Dengue fever can easily be mistaken for normal viral flu, but certain symptoms make it identifiable:
- High fever that appears suddenly and lasts 2–7 days.
- Severe headache, especially behind the eyes.
- Body and joint pain so intense that dengue is often called “breakbone fever.”
- Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, leading to dehydration.
- Extreme weakness and fatigue with skin rashes in some cases.
⚠ Important: If any of these symptoms appear, avoid self-medication and consult a doctor immediately. A simple blood test can confirm dengue.
Preventive Measures Against Dengue
✔ Remove stagnant water around your home—check buckets, coolers, and flowerpots.
✔ Use mosquito nets, repellents, and wear long-sleeved clothes, especially at night.
✔ Boost immunity with fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich foods.
✔ Drink boiled water, fresh fruit juices, and herbal decoctions to stay hydrated.
✔ Children, elderly, and people with diabetes or high blood pressure should take extra care during this season.
Myths About Dengue
🚫 Myth 1: Dengue spreads from one person to another.
✅ Fact: Dengue spreads only through mosquito bites.
🚫 Myth 2: Antibiotics can cure dengue.
✅ Fact: Antibiotics do not work against viral infections. Proper rest, fluids, and medical care are the only effective treatments.
Key Highlights
- Dengue cases surge during the monsoon due to stagnant water.
- Early symptoms resemble viral fever but include severe headache, eye pain, and joint pain.
- Immediate medical attention and blood tests are crucial for recovery.
- Preventive measures: remove stagnant water, use mosquito nets, boost immunity, and stay hydrated.
- Myths busted: Dengue does not spread person-to-person, and antibiotics cannot cure it.