What should you know about dengue breeding sites?

Inspect plant saucers, buckets, uncovered tanks, discarded containers, blocked drains, toys, roof gutters and other items that collect rain or tap water. A site can be easy to miss because only a shallow amount of stagnant water may be enough. Check balconies, gardens, building edges and shared outdoor areas, not just inside the home. Removing the water interrupts the mosquito life cycle.

Empty and scrub water-holding containers regularly, cover stored water tightly, clear blocked drains and discard items that collect water. Ask building management or local public-health services about larger or inaccessible areas. Prevent bites with screens, suitable repellent and clothing that covers exposed skin. If fever develops, arrange a GP Consultation and mention possible mosquito exposure.

Seek urgent help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding, fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty or inability to drink. Fever with headache, chills, muscle aches or Easy Bruising should be medically assessed when dengue is possible.

Ask which symptoms need same-day review, whether testing is appropriate, and how to protect household members from mosquito bites while you are unwell.