Dengue: Salvador is in a state of epidemic; see how to protect yourself | Salvador City Hall Advertising Special

Dengue cases in Bahia have continued on a dangerous growth curve since the beginning of the year. According to Sesab’s Epidemiological Surveillance Directorate (Divep), as of March 30, 285 municipalities were in a state of epidemic (68% of cities), including the capital Salvador. Another 45 cities are at risk and 12 are on alert.

Municipalities have expanded combat actions, which range from the use of smoke cars to direct communication channels for reporting possible outbreaks of Aedes aegypti (the transmitting mosquito).

In Salvador, the municipal government intensified joint efforts in neighborhoods by cleaning canals, eliminating dengue outbreaks in abandoned properties, and partnered with the Army, training soldiers to act as multipliers of combat actions and information, in addition to vaccination campaigns .

In addition to these efforts, some measures adopted by the population can contribute to controlling the increase in the number of cases. Check out:

Joint actions: insecticides and screens

Simple and effective, the use of screens and mosquito nets can help prevent mosquitoes from entering through windows, generating extra protection, especially for children.

The measure can be combined with the use of spray or shot insecticides, which help kill adult mosquitoes, especially indoors. When using these products, it is important to remain alert regarding allergic reactions.

Screens can also be used on drains, if they cannot be closed, preventing mosquitoes from laying their eggs. Chlorine, although widely used, is not the most effective measure for drains.

Protection against sting

The use of repellents is highly recommended to protect against mosquito bites. However, despite the abundant supply on pharmacy and supermarket shelves, you need to pay attention to what type of repellent to use.

According to the Ministry of Health, products recommended for preventing dengue fever must contain DEET (NN-diethylmetatoluamide), IR3535 or Icaridin in their composition.

These types of repellents are even recommended for use during pregnancy, a risk factor for dengue complications. In the case of children, it is important to check the composition and follow the pediatrician’s guidance.

Reapplication during the day must follow the recommendations on each product label, remembering that in the case of use with products, such as moisturizer, sunscreen or makeup, the repellent must be applied last.

Cutting evil in the bud

Among the actions adopted to combat dengue, the most effective of them is to prevent the proliferation of mosquitoes, making sure that there are no breeding sites inside the house or in the neighborhood.

Check gutters regularly, removing leaves, branches and anything that could prevent water from flowing; close the drains or protect them with screens; keep the water tank always closed with a suitable lid, avoiding any entry point for mosquitoes; Place rubbish in plastic bags and keep the bin tightly closed.

In addition, eliminate any debris and carefully clean vases, pots, plates and other objects that accumulate water, even if they are dry. It is important to scrub them, as Aedes aegypti eggs can remain preserved for up to a year and a half on the surface of the internal wall of the objects.

If you suspect outbreaks in the neighborhood, such as untreated swimming pools, abandoned houses, rubble, tires, accumulated rubbish, report it by calling 160 or 156.