Daily Times

Sir: Dengue, a mosquito-transmitted viral infection, has emerged as a serious public health problem in several regions. Approximately two thirds of the world population lives in areas infested by Aedes aegypti, the major vector of the disease. In Pakistan, Karachi was the first city to be affected by dengue in 1994. It took several years for dengue to reach other parts of the country. Since 2006, Lahore has been in the grip of dengue outbreaks. Initially outbreaks occurred on alternate years, but from 2010 onwards, Lahore was hit by dengue on two consecutive years, and the 2011 dengue outbreak was one of the biggest ever in Pakistan.

Aedes aegypti is recognised as an indoor mosquito, which adapts to breed around human dwellings and prefers to lay its eggs in clean water, which contains no other living species. Although the government of Punjab has been endeavouring very hard to combat this disease but the fight against the disease transmitted by our housemate mosquitoes will be futile without household participation. Controlling mosquito infestation in households requires action from the entire community. Effective behavioural changes in the community are required regarding the elimination of household mosquito breeding sites.

The best and the most doable and cost effective approach against dengue is to find and drain stagnant water bodies, possible mosquito breeding sites. Everyone should take part in a campaign to discard old tyres, unused water closets are to be covered, artificial containers discarded and roofs and gutters cleared of stagnant water in order to eliminate the dengue threat.

This mosquito usually bites at dusk and dawn but may bite at any time during the day — especially indoors — in shady areas, or when the weather is cloudy. Mosquito repellents are to be applied to exposed body parts, particularly during peak biting hours. Wear clothes that cover, like long-sleeved shirts and trousers while outdoors. Use mosquito nets over the bed while sleeping outside or in bedrooms with open windows. Nets can be sprayed with insecticide, particularly permethrin. Likewise, spray permethrin or a similar insecticide inside the house.

In case of the appearance of dengue symptoms, which are fever, body aches and pains, retro orbital pain, rashes, always take Panadol for fever and pain, and never take Disprin because of a risk of hemorrhage. Keep a close watch on the platelet count and do not panic. In case, if platelets plunge down below 20000/mm3, contact your doctor.

Taking appropriate steps at community level will not only supplement government efforts but will also save huge resources. Strengthening the bond between communities and the health services should be an ongoing effort, rather than reserved for dealing with dengue epidemics. Through such ongoing partnerships, the health sector and communities can work together and implement more feasible and effective measures for dengue prevention and control.

DR ZARFISHAN TAHIR

Incharge Punjab Institute of Public Health

Lahore