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Dengue Prevention and Control: 7 Things Every Homeowner Should Do

Dengue Prevention and Control: 7 Things Every Homeowner Should Do

What are things to do for dengue prevention and control at home?

  1. Reduce possible habitats
  2. Stay in screened areas
  3. Use mosquito repellants
  4. Keep your home airy and well-lit
  5. Dry wet clothing and fabrics as soon as possible
  6. Dispose of waste properly
  7. Use pest control

 

Dengue fever is unfortunately very common in our tropical home — and the risk of catching it gets higher during and after the rainy season. 

Dengue symptoms include high fever, nausea, vomiting, rashes, and various aches and pains. This sickness can be very difficult to deal with and recover from.

That said, there are many ways to reduce the risk of dengue, and possibly even avoid it entirely at home. It’s important to know what these are to help keep you and your family safe during this time of year! In this post, we’ve prepared seven dengue prevention and control tips for you to use at home:

 

Reduce possible habitats

Reduce possible habitats

Mosquitoes are known to like living near stagnant water because it provides the perfect environment for them to lay their larvae. When these hatches, the pupae can easily survive and grow since there is little to no water flow. 

This is why it is important to look around your home for any possible habitats — i.e., pools of stagnant water. Whether they’re clean or dirty water, you should get rid of them. Take a look at objects such as tires, flower pots, pet water bowls, plastic containers, etc. around your home for any pools of water. 

We also recommend checking your water systems (such as your septic tank and plumbing pipes) are free of any leaks. You can also drain and clean your roof gutters to avoid any build-up of water. 

Reducing the habitat available for these mosquitoes by getting rid of these bodies of water can help prevent dengue at home. 

 

Stay in screened areas

Adding screens to your windows and doors can prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. If you already have screens, make sure there are no holes or gaps. And, if there are any, have them replaced or repaired promptly. 

Once you’ve checked your screened areas, make sure to keep them tightly shut once the sun sets, as this is the time of day when mosquitoes are most active. Keeping these areas closed off will also reduce the risk of them entering your home. 

 

Use mosquito repellants

Use mosquito repellants

Using mosquito repellants, such as sprays, mosquito bands, anti-mosquito wipes, and even burning coils or incense around your home can drive these pests away. You must use these measures when you are outdoors, as you’re more exposed. 

Indoors, you can use these repellants at night, when the mosquitoes are active. 

 

Keep your home airy and well-lit

As we mentioned, mosquitoes like to frequent areas that are damp and have pools of water. But, they also like staying in places that are dark and cool. 

To make them less likely to infest your home, you should try to keep your home airy and well-lit. This should help prevent your home from getting too humid, as well as dry up any damp or wet spots around the house. 

 

Dry wet clothing and fabrics as soon as possible

Likewise, you should also avoid keeping any piles of wet clothing, towels, rugs, or other fabrics. This can attract mosquitoes, as they make the area cool and moist for them.  

Keep any wet and soggy clothes or other items away from dry ones. Also, try to dry them as soon as possible, by either hanging them to dry under the sun or placing an electric fan nearby to air-dry them. 

 

Dispose of waste properly

Dispose of waste properly

Aside from water, mosquitoes are also attracted to junk and dirt. Avoid leaving trash around your house. Likewise, avoid letting it pile up outside your house. Any pile of trash can end up housing these pests, and providing a nice habitat for them to lay their eggs. This is a big risk, as it could lead to an infestation — especially if your trash is wet or soggy. 

We also suggest separating any liquids or wet garbage you want to throw away from the rest of your trash. Keep these in a closed and sealed bin until your trash is collected. 

 

Use pest control

Use pest control

You can also periodically get your home inspected and treated for any mosquito problems you may have. Pest control partners, such as Topbest, are equipped with the materials, tools, and know-how you need to get rid of any pest problem you have — for good — and keep your home safe! 

You never know when these mosquitoes will strike, or if any of the ones hanging around your home are carriers of a deadly disease. While these prevention methods above are a great way to control their numbers, it’s important to work with the professional team of Topbest. We will provide the right household pest control and preventative measures to prevent outbreaks within your home! 

 

Key Takeaway

Dengue is one of the biggest threats that our home faces today. We never know where these pests are lurking, or when they might infect us — but thankfully, there are several dengue prevention and control measures that we can use at home to keep ourselves safe! 

If you’re interested in working with us to clear out any pest problems you have, contact us here — we give free consultations!

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4 Mosquito Borne Diseases You Should Know About

Close-up of mosquito sucking blood from human arm.

What are the mosquito-borne diseases you should know about?

  1. Dengue
  2. Zika virus
  3. Chikungunya
  4. Yellow fever

 

During rainy seasons, dengue is one of the most common mosquito-borne diseases in the Philippines, South-East Asia, and many other regions. But did you know that there are other diseases caused by this pesky insect? When left untreated, the worst of these diseases may even lead to fatalities. Some may not be life-threatening, but they may leave lasting effects that can make living a normal and healthy life, challenging.

Aside from dengue, mosquitos are also the cause of Zika Virus, chikungunya, yellow fever, and many more. If you want to avoid getting sick by these insects in the first place, keep a lookout for potential symptoms and make good hygiene a priority. Continue reading to learn more.

 

Dengue

Man itching and scratching on hand from allergy skin rash cause

Dengue needs no introduction, but it’s still important to understand how this is spread. This viral disease is transmitted mainly when an individual gets bitten by a female Aedes species mosquito. The females need to consume human blood in order to facilitate the reproduction of eggs. When a mosquito bites someone who is infected with the dengue virus, they will become carriers or vectors and will spread the diseases to other humans through biting.

Fever is a common dengue symptom, but you should also look out for other signs such as vomiting, nausea, headaches, skin rashes, and other body pains. There is currently no treatment. However, the World Health Organization has recommended the use of Dengvaxia (dengue vaccine CYD-TDV) only for individuals that have previously caught the infection.

If you’re recovering from dengue at home, you can also do a number of pain relief techniques such as consuming paracetamol (ibuprofen or aspirin is not prescribed, since they may cause harmful side effects, like bleeding. Make sure that you stay hydrated and that you don’t drink water that has been left stagnant for some time.

 

Zika Virus

The first recorded outbreak of the Zika Virus was in the mid-20th century in the tropical region of Africa. There have since been other reported cases of this virus in areas like Central America, Africa, the Caribbean, South-East Asia, and the Pacific Region.

Zika Virus is transmitted similarly to dengue — i.e. through the bite of an Aedes mosquito — however, there are a few key differences. For one, there is potential for human-to-human transmission, especially after intercourse with an infected person. Pregnant women who contract this disease are also likely to pass it onto the baby, causing potential birth defects.

Another difference is that people infected with the Zika Virus may be asymptomatic or may only show mild symptoms like fever, body pains, conjunctivitis, or rashes. Consistently applying mosquito-repellent lotions, wearing covered outfits, and making sure that there is no standing water at home can help oneself from this disease.

 

Chikungunya

Close-up of mosquito sucking blood from human arm.

Also known as CHIK fever, chikungunya is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquito and has spread in the Asia-Pacific, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Similar to the Zika Virus and dengue chikungunya is spread through bites from infected mosquitoes.

Symptoms from this mosquito-borne virus in infected individuals will show around 3 to 7 days after being bitten. These symptoms can be mild to debilitating, which can affect everyday life. Muscle and joint pains, in particular, may last for several months even after all other symptoms have gone away (fever, rashes, headaches).

Patients that have recovered from either any of the three diseases on the list may already be protected or immune from further reinfection in the future. You can protect yourself from this disease by practicing proper hygiene, wearing covered clothing, applying mosquito repellents, and keeping your surroundings clean and tidy.

 

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is another mosquito-transmitted disease caused by the Aedes or the Haemagogus species. A typical symptom of this disease may be the following: body pains, nausea, vomiting, headaches, exhaustion, lethargy (weakness), chills, and fever. In some cases, patients may even develop jaundice which causes the skin and the eyes to turn yellowish.

The disease is endemic in Central America, South America, as well as Africa. Upon infection, the symptoms can be mild or severe. Most patients are able to recover and will not show any symptoms after four days. In severe cases, however, patients may experience a number of cardiac, kidney, and liver issues — all of which can result in fatality.

Yellow fever prevention can be done by taking precautions similar to what you’d do to prevent dengue, Zika Virus, and chikungunya. Vaccination is also effective and can provide long-lasting protection against the virus.

 

Key Takeaway

Some of the mosquito-borne diseases covered in this guide include the following: dengue, chikungunya, Zika Virus, and yellow fever. The most common type of mosquito species causing these diseases is the Aedes, but in the case of yellow fever, the Haemagogus species may also be the culprit. As long as you take all the necessary precautions to counter diseases, you can stay safe without any worries.

Is your building a breeding ground for mosquitoes during the rainy season? You may need professional pest control services from Topbest. Get in touch with us now and get a free consultation!

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Dengue in The Philippines: 4 Favorite Breeding Spots of Mosquitoes

Dengue In The Philippines - 4 Favorite Breeding Spots of Mosquitoes

We all know that mosquitoes lay their eggs in areas with standing water. But what most of us don’t realize is that these breeding grounds are often barely noticeable. We go on with our daily routines while mosquitoes breed under our very noses. Take it from a pest control Philippines expert, standing water doesn’t always have to be in a pond. If you’re looking for ways to stop dengue at its tracks, here’s our short guide on mosquito breeding spots around your home that you need to start checking.

Trash cans

If you unknowingly leave your trash can uncovered outside, this means that you’re letting rain and dew collect at the bottom of the can. And we all know that a few inches of standing water is already enough to start a little mosquito family. What could be worse than a mosquito family bred in disgusting trash water? To keep trash cans mosquito free, replace your old cans with tight lidded ones. Or if you’re handy, you can drill a small hole at the bottom of your cans so that any collected water will easily be drained.

Backyard Clutter

We’re talking about piles of lumber scraps, old hub caps, mop buckets, and even worn out tires. If it can collect standing water, you can be sure that it can be turned into a mosquito breeding ground. If there’s no way that you can clear out your backyard clutter completely, try doing weekly checks to see if you have any potential mosquito breeding areas. This way, you’ll be able to dump out anything that has collected standing water on a regular basis.

Swimming Pool

If you own a swimming pool, you’re probably thinking there’s no way mosquitoes can breed there. It takes a lot of effort (and money) to keep your pool clean. But what you don’t know is that the chemical balance to repel mosquitoes and other pests found in water treatments usually only last for a week. After that, it’s a free for all. Next time you take a dip in your pool, check around if there’s any trace for a potential mosquito infestation.

Pipes and Hoses

Lastly, check your plumbing system for leaks or open pipes that can be a viable spot for mosquitoes to breed. If you find any exposed pipes that don’t get flushed often, it’s time to set a regular cleaning schedule. Open pipes are a favourite breeding spots for mosquitoes since these often go unattended. Don’t forget to also check your hoses and make sure that you purchase a spray nozzle so that they remain sealed when not in use. Have any tips on how to prevent another dengue outbreak that you’d care to share? Let us know in the comments section below.