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Guarding Against Dengue & Chikungunya This Monsoon: A Guide to Staying Safe

21st August, 2025

Guarding Against Dengue & Chikungunya This Monsoon: A Guide to Staying Safe
Introduction

The monsoon season brings relief from the summer heat, but it also creates the perfect breeding ground for mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue and Chikungunya. Both diseases are transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquito and can cause severe health implications if not addressed promptly. In recent years, Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal have witnessed significant rise in cases during this period. With timely awareness and preventive action, we can protect ourselves, families, and our communities from these seasonal health threats.


Understanding the Diseases

Dengue


  • Caused by the dengue virus, spread through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes.
  • Symptoms include high grade fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle aches, rash, and mild bleeding (like nose or gum bleeding).
  • In severe cases, it can lead to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or Dengue Shock Syndrome, which require immediate medical care.


Chikungunya


  • Also transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, the chikungunya virus causes high fever, intense joint pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash.
  • While it rarely causes death, joint pain can last for weeks or even months, significantly affecting quality of life.


Why Monsoon Increases the Risk?

During the monsoon, water often collects in puddles, flowerpots, buckets, discarded tires, and not to forget new construction sites. These stagnant water sources become breeding sites for mosquitoes. Warm, humid weather also accelerates mosquito breeding cycles, leading to a rapid increase in their population.


Prevention is the Best Protection

Keep Surroundings Clean


  • Remove stagnant water from all containers in and around your home.
  • Ensure water tanks are covered and cleaned regularly.
  • Change water in flower vases every 2-3 days.


Use Mosquito Protection


  • Install mesh screens on windows and doors.
  • Use mosquito repellents and nets, especially at night and during early morning hours when mosquitoes are most active.
  • Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing to reduce exposed skin.


Community Action


  • Encourage neighbours and local communities to conduct weekly cleanliness drives.
  • Report mosquito breeding grounds to local health authorities.


Early Detection Saves Lives

If you or someone you know develops symptoms like high grade fever, severe joint pain, or persistent headache during monsoon, do not ignore them. Seek medical help immediately. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications and improve recovery outcomes.


Treatment & Care

Dengue


  • There is no specific antiviral treatment; care focuses on managing symptoms.
  • Adequate hydration is crucial.
  • Avoid self-medication-especially painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen-as they can worsen bleeding risk.


Chikungunya


  • Symptom management includes rest, fluids, and pain relief under medical guidance.
  • Physiotherapy may help in long-term joint pain recovery.


How Peerless Hospital Can Help?

At Peerless Hospital, our team of experienced doctors and advanced diagnostic facilities ensure quick identification and effective management of mosquito-borne illnesses. We offer:



Conclusion

This monsoon, let's make health our priority. By taking simple preventive measures, staying alert to symptoms, and seeking timely medical care, we can keep Dengue and Chikungunya at bay. Your safety begins with awareness-and together, we can ensure a healthier season for all.

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