Village Connect
Dengue fever is one of the fastest-spreading mosquito-borne diseases worldwide, affecting millions of people every year. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified dengue as a major public health concern, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. In the Philippines, the Department of Health has reported a significant rise in dengue cases, even before the peak rainy season. With this surge in cases, misinformation about dengue continues to spread, leading to confusion and potentially harmful practices.
To combat this, health advocacy platforms like Real Talk Breaking News by Barangay Bell-Kenz are stepping up to provide accurate information. In a recent episode, Dr. Jay Ron Padua, a Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist, addressed common misconceptions about dengue and emphasized the importance of proper knowledge in preventing and managing the disease.
Debunking Dengue Myths
- Myth 1: Dengue is just a mild illness.
- Fact: While many people experience mild symptoms or remain asymptomatic, dengue can cause severe complications, including internal bleeding and organ damage, if left untreated. Seeking early medical care is crucial in preventing severe cases.
- Myth 2: You can only get dengue once.
- Fact: Dengue has four different virus strains. If a person is infected with one strain, they develop lifelong immunity to that specific strain but can still contract the other three. In fact, secondary infections can sometimes be more severe.
- Myth 3: Dengue is contagious and spreads from person to person.
- Fact: Unlike the flu or COVID-19, dengue is not transmitted through direct contact with an infected person. It is spread only through the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito.
- Myth 4: Dengue mosquitoes only breed in dirty water.
- Fact: The Aedes mosquito lays eggs in stagnant water, regardless of cleanliness. Containers like flower pots, water tanks, and even bottle caps can become breeding grounds.
- Myth 5: Dengue only occurs during the rainy season.
- Fact: While dengue cases rise during the rainy months due to increased mosquito breeding, infections can occur year-round. As long as mosquitoes can survive, the risk of dengue remains.
Preventing Dengue: The 5S Strategy
Dr. Padua stresses that dengue is preventable through proper awareness and community action. The Department of Health promotes the 5S Strategy to minimize the risk:
- Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites.
- Seek early consultation for fever and other symptoms.
- Self-protection measures, such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and using mosquito nets.
- Support fogging and misting in outbreak-prone areas.
- Sustain hydration to help manage symptoms.
Dengue remains a serious public health issue, but with the right knowledge and precautions, communities can protect themselves. Stay informed through reliable sources like Real Talk Breaking News on Facebook and YouTube to learn more about dengue and other health concerns.
