Pakistan just went through a wave of destruction. Millions of people were displaced and lives were taken. After everything that the people of Pakistan just went through, dengue has taken a toll.
What Is Dengue? Why Is It Affecting Pakistan?
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus. When a mosquito bites a person who already has dengue, that mosquito becomes infected with the virus as well. Symptoms typically begin three to fourteen days after infection. After the floods, mosquitos started to swarm the still water. Dengue is spreading like the plague and is taking lives more than ever. Currently, 22,938 dengue fever cases were reported in Pakistan.
Symptoms Of Dengue
Symptoms may include a high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin itching and skin rash. Recovery generally takes two to seven days. In other cases: abdominal pain or tenderness, persistent vomiting, lethargy, or restlessness can be signs of dengue. If you or your loved ones are experiencing any of these symptoms at the given moment, get a CBC test done and visit your nearest healthcare professional.
Foods You Should Eat During Recovery
If you do have dengue, these are the foods you should eat in abundance.
- Papaya leaf juice
- Vegetable juices
- Coconut water
- Herbal tea
In essence, your fluid intake should be more than usual. Get a lot of rest and avoid fatty foods.
How To Take Care And Avoid Dengue And Malaria
Avoiding mosquitos might be the most difficult task given the circumstances. Have mosquito repellent on you at all times. Try to not open doors and windows during the evening and early morning. Make sure you do not have any still water tubs sitting at home. Get mosquito-repellent mats and sprays.
All in all, take care of yourself and your loved ones. Do you know any dengue antidote? let us know in the comments below.
cover image via j&j
