Dengue Fever Other Information: Prevention tips to get rid of mosquito breeding places

Dengue Fever - Other Information

Can you or your child spread dengue to others?

No. Dengue fever is not transmitted by direct spread from one person to another. It is transmitted by infected mosquito bites. Hence, persons in the same vicinity may come down with dengue fever.

Can you or your child be infected again?

Yes. There are four strains of dengue viruses. Infection with one strain will provide protection against only that particular strain. Future infection by other strains is possible. Currently, there is no vaccine available for dengue fever.

How to reduce the chances of being infected by dengue fever?

Singapore is in the tropical region where Aedes aegypti mosquitoes live. The best prevention is to get rid of mosquito breeding places:

Change water in vases or bowls (including pet water containers) on alternate days.
Remove water from flowerpot plates on alternate days.
Turn over all water storage containers.
Cover bamboo pole holders when not in use.
Cover rarely used gully traps.
Add prescribed amount of Temephos sand granular insecticide in roof gutters at least one a month.
Cover toilet bowls and floor traps when away from home for a few or more days.
Fit all floor traps with anti-mosquito valves.

Air-conditioning or window/doors with mosquitoes screen can reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.

Using mosquito repellents containing DEET as the active ingredient on exposed skin and clothing can also decrease the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.

However, it is important to note

Children below two months old should avoid DEET mosquito repellent.
Children below three years old should avoid eucalyptus oil.
Children above two months old should use mosquito repellent in low er concentration of DEET between seven to 20%.
Pregnant women should reduce the usage of DEET mosquito repellent and apply on clothing instead.
Mosquito repellent with DEET in concentration between 20 to 30% is only suitable for adults.