Date:05/08/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2004/08/05/stories/2004080504870300.htm

Karnataka - Bidar

People asked to guard against dengue

By Our Staff Correspondent

BIDAR, AUG. 4. The Department of Health has issued several guidelines to prevent the possible outbreak of dengue fever in the district.

The District Health and Family Welfare Officer, Shivashankar Naregal, has asked people to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes even during the day.

The mosquito that carries the microbe responsible for dengue is active only during daytime.

Sleeping inside mosquito nets and using mosquito repellents is necessary, according to a release from Mr. Naregal says.

The mosquito breeds in stagnant water, including inside air-conditioners, flower vases, tanks and barrels, plastic cups and even discarded tyres.

The insect multiplies in 8 to10 days, and travels over long distances.

The release also says that the water in air-conditioners and flower vases should be replaced at least once a week to prevent the mosquito from breeding.

People should consult a doctor immediately if they notice symptoms such as high fever, headache, pain in the forehead and behind the eyes, pain in the hands, legs or joints, nausea, vomiting and oozing of blood from the mouth and nose, the release from the District Health and Family Welfare Officer adds.