Dakshina Kannada reports 43 dengue cases this year, DHO cautions against self-medication

Dengue outbreak in Dakshina Kannada district prompts warning against self-medication, stressing importance of prevention measures.

Stating that Dakshina Kannada district had reported 43 dengue cases till May this year, H.R. Thimmaiah, the District Health and Family Welfare Officer, on Tuesday, cautioned people against self-medication to treat the fever.

Addressing the media, the DHO said that people should consult a doctor or visit the nearest government healthcare facility if they develop symptoms such as a sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and a rash.

Going for self medication might lead to multiple health complications, he cautioned.

The DHO said that henceforth, the department will survey 50 households for every case of common fever reported in an area. Households surrounding a fever patient will be surveyed to determine if there are additional fever cases in the area, including those of dengue. It will help contain the spread of the fever.

Dr. Thimmaiah said that more dengue cases are being reported from Belthangady, Puttur and Sullia taluks.

Farmers should ensure that coconut shells and plastic cups used to collect latex during tapping in rubber plantations do not hold stagnant water. They should also ensure that fallen leaves of arecanut palms in the plantations don’t harbour stagnant rainwater, he said.

The DHO said that Aedes mosquito breeds in stagnant water found in flower pots, drums, buckets, and rubber tyres. People should empty them at least once a week by observing a dry day.