What You Need to Know About Dengue Fever & How Mosquito Control Helps

Dengue fever is a prevalent disease in Singapore, particularly due to its tropical climate that makes it a hotbed for mosquitoes to breed. It is transmitted through the bite of Aedes mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti species. First-time infections can be severe, especially among the elderly, kids, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. This is why it’s important to understand the symptoms and take preventive measures, such as mosquito control in Singapore, in order to combat the disease. As we approach dengue season once again, here’s a useful guide on the symptoms of dengue fever, and how services like mosquito fogging in Singapore can help.

Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Dengue fever typically comes with a range of symptoms that tend to appear around 4–7 days after a mosquito bite. The most common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding, such as nosebleeds or gum bleeding. Other symptoms may also include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. While most cases of dengue fever are mild and resolve within a week or two, it is essential to monitor the symptoms closely. If symptoms worsen or the fever persists, it is crucial to immediately seek medical attention, as even a few seconds could mean the difference between life or death when it comes to lethal illnesses.

More Serious Dengue Cases

In some cases, dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever. This condition is characterised by a decrease in platelet count, increased vascular permeability, and a higher risk of bleeding. Individuals with severe dengue may experience intense abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, severe bleeding, and organ impairment. As mentioned above, dengue symptoms that worsen can eventually lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever, and definitely requires immediate medical attention. Early detection and proper medical care are crucial in managing severe cases and reducing the risk of complications. The best cure, however, is prevention, and this is why mosquito control in Singapore is so important to drastically reduce dengue clusters.

How Mosquito Control Helps

Mosquito control in Singapore plays a crucial role in preventing the transmission of dengue fever. By reducing the mosquito population and minimising the risk of mosquito bites, the spread of the disease can be significantly curtailed. There are several effective methods employed in mosquito control efforts:

Fogging

Mosquito fogging in Singapore involves the use of specialised equipment to disperse insecticides in the form of fine mist or fog. It targets adult mosquitoes and is typically carried out in outdoor areas, particularly in areas with high mosquito populations, such as drains and stagnant bodies of water. Mosquito fogging in Singapore is effective in reducing the adult mosquito population temporarily and can provide relief from mosquito bites. Here at Ridpest, we are also committed to using environmentally friendly chemicals that do not affect the well-being of those who inadvertently inhale their fumes.

Misting

Misting is a kind of mosquito control in Singapore that involves the use of automated misting systems to release insecticides at regular intervals. These misting systems are strategically installed in outdoor areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. Misting provides continuous protection by creating a barrier that repels and eliminates mosquitoes. Here at Ridpest, we conduct this differently by using water-based misting which dispenses Suspension Concentrate (SC) chemicals, either via Ultra-low Volume (ULV) or a backpack power sprayer. This is more effective as the chemicals used last a couple of weeks, depending on the weather. Adult mosquitoes that land on the treated surface tend not to survive.

Larvaeciding

Larvaeciding is a preventive measure aimed at controlling mosquito breeding sites. It involves the application of larvicides, which are chemicals designed to kill mosquito larvae before they develop into adults. Larvaeciding targets stagnant water sources, such as flower pots, drains, and containers, where mosquitoes lay their eggs. By eliminating these breeding sites, the mosquito population can be effectively controlled.

Besides implementing mosquito control in Singapore, it also helps to use personal protective measures like wearing long sleeves and using mosquito repellents. Today, you can easily find repellent lotions that are light and easy on the skin, or even repellent patches that you can simply stick onto the fabric of your clothes. Either way, it is important for individuals and communities to remain vigilant in practising mosquito control to protect themselves and their communities from dengue fever.

Learn more: 6 Ways to Achieve A Mosquito-free Home 

Here at Ridpest, we’ve been a trusted partner to communities around Singapore in pest control. With years of experience and a highly trained and dedicated team of professionals, we provide modern and cutting-edge solutions to age-old pest problems. For instance, we use a modern, revolutionary IN2CARE mosquito gravitrap system, made from durable recycled polypropylene (PP) components. The station attracts female mosquitoes and beckons them to lay eggs, which are then killed by the US-EPA-approved chemicals in the station itself. For more information about our services, please visit our website.