Pune health alert: Dengue, chikungunya and zika cases on the rise. Here’s how you can protect yourself

In response to the increasing number of vector-borne diseases, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a targeted containment initiative. This year, Pune has recorded 202 cases of dengue, 176 cases of chikungunya and 101 cases of the Zika virusFollowing the recommendations of the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC), PMC will intensify efforts to control not only the Aedes aegypti mosquito but also other species like Aedes albopictus and Aedes japonicus to prevent further spread of these diseases. With the onset of the monsoon season, mosquito breeding sites multiply, increasing the risk of these vector-borne diseases. Therefore, it is essential to know the signs and symptoms and follow preventive measures.

Symptoms of dengue, chikungunya and zika viruses:

Both dengue and chikungunya are caused by viruses that are transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes are active during the day, which increases the chances of transmission.

Dengue:

High fever: One of the characteristic symptoms of dengue is the sudden onset of high fever, often reaching 104 degrees F (40 degrees C).

Severe headache: Dengue is often accompanied by severe headaches, which can be debilitating.

Pain behind the eyes: People may experience severe pain behind the eyes, which worsens with eye movement.

Muscle and joint pain: Dengue can cause severe pain in muscles and joints, earning it the nickname “breakbone fever.”

Rash: A characteristic rash may appear a few days after the onset of fever, usually on the arms and legs.

Bleeding: In severe cases, dengue can cause bleeding from the nose or gums or easy bruising.

Chikungunya:

High fever: Similar to dengue, chikungunya begins with the sudden onset of high fever, often accompanied by chills.

Joint pain: The most prominent symptom of chikungunya is severe joint pain, which can be debilitating and persist for weeks.

Muscle pain: People may experience muscle pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly in the joints.

Headache: Headaches are common in Chikungunya infections, although they are usually less severe than in dengue.

Rash: Some patients may develop a rash, which usually appears on the trunk and extremities.

Zika virus

Zika virus is most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. It can also be transmitted through sexual intercourse from a person infected with Zika virus to his or her sexual partner(s). Zika virus can be transmitted from a pregnant person to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects.

According to health experts, many people infected with the Zika virus may have no symptoms or only mild symptoms. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease (Zika) are:

– Fever

– Rash

– Headache

– Joint pain

– Conjunctivitis (red eyes)

– Muscle pain

Preventive measures:

To effectively reduce the risk of contracting dengue, chikungunya and Zika viruses, you can follow these preventive measures:

– Eliminate stagnant water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Periodically clean and empty containers, flower pots and gutters where water can accumulate.

– Use mosquito repellents: Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, especially during peak mosquito activity hours (morning and evening).

– Wear protective clothing: Cover your skin with long sleeves, pants, and socks to reduce mosquito bites.

– Install mosquito nets: Use mosquito nets on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home.

– Use mosquito nets: Sleep under treated mosquito nets, especially in areas prone to outbreaks.

– Regular fogging: Community fogging helps reduce mosquito populations.