The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, has designated May 16 as National Dengue Day to raise awareness about the deadly fever associated with dengue. On this day, health sectors highlight the measures taken to prevent the disease's occurrence and the government's plan to contain it before it spreads widely.
According to WHO, dengue infections have increased exponentially not only in the Indian subcontinent but also globally, with an estimated 100-400 million infections occurring each year. With nearly half of the world's population at risk of contracting this deadly disease, National Dengue Day is an excellent opportunity to educate the general public about the symptoms and signs of dengue, as well as the precautionary measures that must be taken to eradicate it.
Dengue fever is a viral disease spread by mosquitos that is caused by the dengue virus (DEN V). The virus is primarily spread by the bite of the Aedes mosquito, which is common in tropical and subtropical climates throughout Asia, Central and South America, Africa, and the Pacific Islands. Dengue viruses are classified into four types, and infection with any of them can result in a fatal fever. Unlike other viruses, Dengue is not contagious from person to person, except when passed from a pregnant woman to her unborn child.
Dengue symptoms usually appear 3-14 days after being bitten by the carrier mosquito. Dengue symptoms include high fever, muscle and joint pain, constant headaches, throbbing pain behind the eyes, and body rashes. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is also associated with an abrupt onset of symptoms such as abdominal cramping, vomiting, nausea, and bleeding. Dengue shock syndrome can be fatal in the case of chronic hemorrhagic fever that lasts for several days.
Because there are no vaccines available to protect us against this viral infection, the best way to prevent dengue is to avoid being bitten by mosquitos entirely. Dengue-carrying mosquitos are usually active before sunset and sunrise. As a result, during the specified period, keep the windows and doors closed.
However, because it is not always possible to avoid these blood-sucking insects, one must also prepare with mosquito repellants containing at least 10% DEET to avoid being bitten. While store-bought mosquito repellants are plentiful, if you are allergic to them or simply prefer something natural with no side effects, we have you covered!
Mosquitoes are typically attracted by a combination of sweat, bacteria, carbon dioxide, body heat, and body odours. As a result, if that sense of smell is disrupted, one can easily avoid mosquito bites.
We've gathered a collection of natural ingredients that, when smeared or sprayed onto the body, effectively repel these pesky creatures by blocking their sense of smell.
Citronella: This citrusy aromatic herb from the Cymbopogon family is a well-known natural bug repellent, whether in the form of essential oil or a gel-based formula. According to studies, the topical application is as effective as DEET and can provide protection for up to 2-3 hours. So, get yourself a bottle of this essential oil to protect yourself from all kinds of insects, including mosquitoes.
Basil: The miraculous properties of holy basil extend far beyond its use in gourmet cuisines. The plant's natural aroma, or its formulation, repels insects and mosquitoes. According to medical studies in Kenya, the potted plant can repel 40% of malaria-causing mosquitos while the essential oil repels 100% of yellow fever-causing mosquitos.
Neem: Known as an "all-rounder," Neem provides numerous health and wellness benefits. However, due to its strong pungent aroma, it works best as an excellent natural mosquito repellent. According to a 2015 study, a concentration of 20% neem oil provided 70% protection for up to 3 hours between dusk and dawn. To avoid skin irritation, dilute it with a base oil such as coconut or almond oil.
Peppermint: The antimicrobial nature of the bioactive components, limonene, and menthol, not only provides clear skin but also effectively repels mosquitoes. According to a 2011 study, steep concentrations of peppermint essential oil are extremely effective against mosquito larvae and provide 100% protection against yellow fever-causing mosquitos for up to two weeks.
Eucalyptus: Known for their soothing and revitalising camphor-like aroma, the leaves of the Eucalyptus tree are endowed with a plethora of benefits. It not only repels mosquitoes, but it also improves respiratory functions, improves skin, and relieves pain. The CDC has approved eucalyptus and coconut oil as mosquito repellents, and they can provide 95% mosquito protection for up to 3 hours.