Dengue vector control: practical mosquito prevention

Dengue is spread when an infected mosquito bites a person and later bites someone else. The mosquitoes can breed in small amounts of still water, including containers, plant trays, roof gutters and discarded items. Removing, covering or regularly emptying these sources interrupts the mosquito life cycle.

Bite prevention matters during the day as well as at night. Dengue can present with fever, headache, joint pain, muscle aches or chills; easy bruising or other bleeding signs deserve medical attention.

Empty and scrub water-holding containers, keep water storage tightly covered, clear blocked drains and dispose of items that collect rain. Use window screens or air conditioning where available, apply an appropriate insect repellent, and wear loose clothing that covers arms and legs. Coordinate with building management when breeding sites are shared.

Contact a clinician for fever after mosquito exposure, especially with headache, intense muscle or joint pain, vomiting, abdominal pain, rash or easy bruising. Seek urgent help for bleeding, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion, breathing trouble or unusual drowsiness. Keep drinking fluids if able and mention recent travel or exposure.

Ask which repellent is suitable for you, how to protect children or pregnant household members, whether a fever needs testing, and which local service can advise on persistent mosquito breeding around your building.