Do you know that not all mosquitos are created equal? Only the Aedes aegypti can carry the dengue virus with deadly results like a serial killer!
Identifiable by its black and white stripes on the legs and white lyre-shaped markings on its thorax, Aedes aegypti usually bite two hours after sunrise and a few hours before sunset. They may also bite at night as long as they’re in well-lit areas.
A day-time serial killer, no doubt.
Dengue cases increased by a disturbing rate of 83-percent in the first six months of 2022 to 65,190 cases compared to the 35,715 in the same period last year, based on date released by the Department of Health (DOH).
While there’s no specific cure for dengue, medical practitioners can treat its symptoms. For now, the best way to deter the “serial killer” is through prevention.
Dengue’s comeback may be attributed to a number of factors such as frequent rainfalls this wet season. Downpours create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. While warm temperatures caused by climate change hasten their growth and development.
Containers with stagnant water like bottle caps, gutters, trash cans, and planters should be emptied and cleaned. Decluttering also eliminates potential hiding places.
Using mosquito repellent regularly and bundling up in light-colored clothing that doesn’t expose the skin may work.
Window and door screens, mosquito nets or the lightweight plastic screens can stop pesky bugs from entering your home.
People with dengue may experience fever, muscle aches, joint or bone pain, rashes, headache, nausea or vomiting, and eye pain for two to seven days. Its severe symptoms are belly pain and tenderness, bleeding from nose or gums, vomiting blood or blood in the stool, and feeling tired, restless or irritable.
Some dengue symptoms are similar to other illnesses, including COVID-19, so it’s important to immediately seek medical assistance.
Of course, it helps to have an insurance policy like Malayan Insurance’s Vital Cover since it provides family and loved ones a financial safety net through death benefits in case their severely sick dengue patient takes a turn for the worse.
Aside from dengue, Vital Cover policyholders are also covered for COVID-19 and chikungunya. It comes with COVID-19 cash assistance benefit, daily hospital income allowance for COVID-19, medical reimbursement for accidental injuries, and accidental death coverage. Policy holders can access Medimate 24/7 teleconsultation and emergency services assistance.
