Hyderabad: Health experts say that delays in anti-fogging operations by the GHMC is a cause of worry as it will allow the breeding of mosquitoes once the rains set in. The dip in temperatures will allow mosquitoes to breed in lakes, open storm water drains and also in waste water at homes.
Mosquito breeding is one of the major reasons for two major seasonal diseases malaria and dengue.
A senior health officer said, “In 2013, the municipal authorities began the work well in advance and due to this the mosquito breeding was controlled. Dengue was rampant all over the country, but Hyderabad was saved due to the operations.”
The symptoms of malaria develop within seven days after being bitten by a mosquito, but it takes 10 to 15 days to appear.
Paediatrician Dr M. Altaf said, “The best way to prevent malaria is to use mosquito repellents and also to limit venturing out at night. People, especially children, must cover themselves.”
While mosquitoes that cause malaria bite at night, dengue-causing mosquitoes strike during the day. Water in pots, stagnated clean water kept for two to three days at a stretch, water on terraces, tanks and also in vases allow for mosquito breeding.
Once a person is bitten, the symptoms show in four to six days. Sometimes it can even take 14 days.
Dr Farhan Shaikh said, “Fever, rash and pains are particular characteristics of dengue. During monsoon, people must take care not to keep stagnated water in flowerpots around their house. Dengue strikes when the immune system is compromised, hence a balanced diet with good intake of fruits will keep the disease at bay.”
Malaria symptoms
Symptoms for malaria include intense muscle pain, headaches, blurred vision and dizziness. Some patients also experience diarrhoea and vomiting. There is very high fever along with chills and sweating.
Dengue symptoms
There are four types of dengue viruses. The symptoms are headaches, fever, exhaustion, severe muscle and joint pains, swollen glands and also rashes
