Mosquitoes carry viruses such as Zika, Chikungunya, Dengue that can cause severe and potentially fatal illness. Don’t take any chances when securing your home against these deadly pests, especially during the rainy season.
The Department of Health recommends the 4S method when dealing with mosquitoes:
- Search and destroy mosquito breeding places;
- Use Self-protection measures;
- Seek early consultation for fever lasting more than 2 days; and
- Say yes to fogging when there is an outbreak of dengue or other mosquito-borne disease.
It’s important to keep one’s home and surroundings clean and to get rid of mosquito breeding places. Here are things you can do at home to help prevent dengue:
- Get rid of stagnant water
Remove potential mosquito breeding spots. Mosquitoes usually breed in stagnant water, so remove empty bottles and containers lying around, or any flat surface that collects rainwater. Cover any sunken areas in the ground to prevent them from collecting water.
- Grow insect-repelling plants
Citronella can ward off mosquitoes, but there are other plants that work just as well. Basil and lavender are good alternatives because their strong scents also repel mosquitoes. Plant a few of these in your yard; or keep scented candles and oils at home for double-duty as repellents and room fresheners.
- Cover your windows and doors with net screens
A cool breeze is welcome at home, but not mosquitoes. Instead of plain metal frames or glass windows, cover your windows with net screens. If you already have them, routinely check these for holes, and replace screens that are damaged or worn out.
Rainy season in the Philippines means dengue season. So gear up and take precautionary measures to avoid this deadly disease.