Dengue: Time to spread awareness, not fear

With the rains around the corner, the fear of dengue fever among Bangaloreans is on a rise. However, some city-based doctors said that the number of cases reported in the hospitals are relatively less compared to last year. It is high-time that people take some precautionary measures, say health officials.

According to BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike) health officer Lokesh M N, in the year 2011, over 77 cases of dengue were confirmed positive but no deaths were reported. The BBMP standing committee chairperson (health) S Venkatesh Babu said that approximately 70-80 cases are suspected this year but till now no cases have been reported. However, the medical superintendent of Victoria Hospital said that last month 2 cases were reported and medical treatment for the same has been provided. The BBMP is also taking measures like spraying mosquito repellents in the problem areas and providing medical assistance to the patients.  Venkatesh Babu, said, “Besides taking immediate measures, instructions have been also given to corporators to inspect their respective wards and take immediate actions if any cases are reported.”

However, the corporator of K R Market, G A Ashwath Narayana said, “No instructions in this regard have been provided to us. However, a senior health inspector recently visited K R Market ward and inspected Tippu Nagar and Anandapuram.”

Venkatesh Babu said that BBMP is not short of medicines to cater to people’s need. He added, “We are giving out pamphlets to the public, to spread awareness. Public must also make an effort to keep their surroundings clean.”

What is dengue fever?

Dengue fever is a disease transmitted by the mosquito bite, which is also known as breakbone fever. Symptoms includes fever, headache, muscle and joint pains. The disease can also develop into a life threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever, which results in bleeding from nose, gums or skin, low levels of blood platelets and blood plasma leakage.

What precautionary measures can be taken?

*  Eliminate habitats of mosquitoes that spread the disease.

*  Discourage open collection of water in your area.

* Wear clothing that fully cover your skin.