Facts About Dengue That You Should Know About

Raising Awareness on World Malaria Day: Essential Prevention Strategies

Malaria remains a significant public health concern, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Implementing preventative practices and seeking prompt medical evaluation upon experiencing symptoms are important for individuals and the well-being of the community.

Leading medical authorities emphasise on malaria being a preventable and treatable illness. Taking proactive steps to minimise mosquito exposure and seeking immediate medical attention at the first sign or symptoms are fundamental in protecting oneself and the broader community.

Essential Malaria Prevention Strategies

1. Minimise Mosquito Exposure: As mosquitoes transmit malarial parasites, several measures can be taken:

• Use Insect Repellents: Apply DEET-based repellents (minimum 20% DEET) to exposed skin.
• Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors, particularly during dawn and dusk (peak mosquito feeding times), wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks.
• Utilize Mosquito Nets: In areas with high mosquito populations, sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets.

2. Eradicate Mosquito Breeding Sites: Stagnant water serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. To minimize this risk:

• Eliminate Standing Water: Regularly remove any stagnant water around residences, including gutters, flowerpots, and discarded containers.
• Maintain Proper Drainage: Ensure proper drainage around properties to prevent water accumulation.

Importance of Early Detection

While prevention is vital, prompt diagnosis and treatment is equally important in combating malaria. It is vital to be aware of common symptoms and seek immediate medical attention, if you experience any of the following, particularly after traveling to a malaria-endemic region:

• Fever and chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea

The Role of Blood Testing

A simple blood test at Manipal TRUtest becomes the most reliable method for diagnosing malaria. Early diagnosis via at- home collection facilitates prompt treatment and helps prevent the spread of the disease. Manipal TRUtest offers a comprehensive range of reliable and readily available malarial blood tests to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis.

Adhering to these preventative measures and seeking immediate medical attention with immediate, accurate and appropriate testing, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting malaria and contribute to a healthier global community.

About Manipal TRUtest

Manipal TRUtest, the diagnostic arm of the esteemed Manipal Group, leverages its 70-year heritage to position itself at the forefront of accessible healthcare. The team is committed to providing high-quality diagnostic services across a nationwide network of over 100 facilities. The comprehensive menu exceeding 3500 tests and scans empowers you to take informed healthcare decisions. Through rapid reporting within 24 hours and a team of qualified professionals adhering to rigorous NABL/NABH accreditation standards, Manipal TRUtest truly prioritises timely and accurate diagnosis.

Join the Fight Against Dengue: Empowering Detection with Manipal TruTest

1. Remove Standing Water: Empty and clean any containers, flowerpots, or water storage areas that can collect stagnant water. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so eliminating these breeding sites is crucial.
2. Use Mosquito Nets and Screens: Sleep under mosquito nets, especially in areas where dengue is prevalent. Set up screens upon windows and doors for preventing mosquitoes from trespassing your living spaces.
3. Wear Protective Clothing: Cover your skin as much as possible by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes, especially during peak mosquito activity times.
4. Apply Mosquito Repellent: Use mosquito repellents on exposed skin to deter mosquitoes. Look for products containing DEET, picaridin, or other recommended ingredients, and follow the instructions for application.
5. Maintain Clean Surroundings: Keep your surroundings clean and well-maintained to reduce mosquito breeding grounds. Trim vegetation, dispose of trash properly, and clear clogged drains to prevent water accumulation.

Remember, dengue prevention is a collective effort, so spread awareness among your family, friends, and community to ensure everyone follows these preventive measures.

Test at Manipal Trutest for dengue detection - 

• NS1 Antigen Test: This test detects the NS1 antigen produced by the dengue virus in the blood. It is usually done in the early stages of infection and provides rapid results.
• Dengue IgM/IgG Antibody Test: This test checks for the presence of dengue-specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) in the blood. IgM antibodies are typically detected in the early stages of infection, while IgG antibodies develop later.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC test can help identify certain changes in the blood cells that are indicative of dengue infection, such as a decrease in platelet count.