What are the dengue prevention measures and immunity tips?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 37-year-old male. Recently, there has been a rise in dengue cases, and we are worried about it. We are trying our best to stay safe. But not sure about the precautionary measures.

I have a small kid and elders at home, so bothered about their health. Has the CDC issued any preventive measures for dengue? Is there any vaccine or medicine available to boost our immunity, especially for kids and the elderly?

What are the precautionary steps to be followed? Any specific diet to improve immunity against dengue?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understand your concern.

Given the recent rise in dengue cases, it is completely understandable to be concerned, especially with young children and elders at home. Dengue is primarily spread through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, so it is crucial to take preventive measures to protect your family.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends several key strategies for preventing dengue.

Firstly, using insect repellent is essential. Look for EPA-registered repellents containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), Picaridin (insect repellant), IR3535 (Ethyl butyl acetylamino propionate), or oil of lemon eucalyptus, and apply them to exposed skin and clothing. Be sure to reapply as directed, especially after sweating or swimming.
Wearing protective clothing is another important step. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes can help reduce skin exposure. Consider treating clothes with permethrin, an insect repellent for fabrics.
Using mosquito nets is particularly important if you don't have air conditioning or screens on your windows and doors. Sleep under mosquito nets, and use netting over baby carriers and strollers to protect the little ones.
It is also critical to keep mosquitoes out of your home. Ensure your windows and doors are properly screened, and use air conditioning where available. Additionally, eliminate any standing water around your home, such as in flowerpots, buckets, and containers, as mosquitoes breed in stagnant water.

Regarding vaccinations- there is a dengue vaccine called Dengvaxia. However, it is approved only for certain individuals in endemic areas and is usually recommended for those who have previously been infected with dengue. Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral medication for dengue, so treatment focuses on supportive care like hydration and pain relief.

To support your family's immune system, focus on-

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Foods high in vitamins C and E, such as citrus fruits, berries, nuts, and green leafy vegetables, can be particularly beneficial.
Keep everyone well-hydrated and encourage regular physical activity.
Adequate sleep is also crucial for a healthy immune system.
Do not forget the importance of regular handwashing with soap and water to prevent the spread of infections.
For your children, use child-safe insect repellents and ensure they wear protective clothing. Make sure they stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet.
For elders, they must follow the same preventive measures, stay hydrated, and get regular check-ups to monitor their health.

I hope you find this information helpful.

Thank you.