Effective Ways to Protect You and Your Family from Dengue Fever

1. Invest in Insect Screens 

Ensuring mosquitoes cannot easily enter the home is crucial for preventing dengue. However, in regions like Singapore, where the climate is humid and temperatures can soar, keeping windows and doors closed at all times may not be practical or comfortable. This is when having insect screens could be game-changing! Investing in insect screens provides an effective solution by allowing proper ventilation while keeping mosquitoes out. 

2.  Use Safe and Effective Insecticides

Another strategy to combat dengue in your home is to use insecticides that are specifically formulated to target mosquitoes while being safe for indoor use. Here are some quick examples of how to select and use these insecticides:

●      Choose products that are labelled for indoor use and follow the instructions carefully.

●      Make sure to keep children and pets away from the treated area until the product has dried or dissipated.

●      Look for insecticides that contain active ingredients that are proven to be effective against mosquitoes, such as pyrethroids or DEET.

Fun Fact: DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) works by interfering with the insect's ability to detect the chemicals that humans and animals emit, such as carbon dioxide, lactic acid, and other compounds that attract insects. By masking these odours, DEET essentially makes it more difficult for biting bugs like mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects to locate and target humans for feeding. As a result, it helps to reduce the likelihood of insect bites and the transmission of diseases carried by insects.

Anyhow always remember, although insecticides provide temporary relief from mosquitoes, they should be used sparingly and kept out of reach of children due to the potential hazards associated with their smoke and chemicals.

3. Use Natural Repellents as Alternatives

Trying to keep your home chemical free? Studies have shown that it is possible to prevent mosquitoes entering your home using natural repellents. These repellents are not only effective, but they are also affordable in comparison to chemical repellents. ¹Kareem Yasin and Ashley Marcin from Healthline wrote an informative article about different natural mosquito repellents and why it works.

Here are our favourites:

●      Lemon Eucalyptus Oil

●      Lavender

●      Cinnamon and Thyme Oil

●      Green Catmint Oil

●      Citronella

However, if you are a fellow cat parent or have any allergies, be careful of the oils you choose, as some might be harmful to you and your beloved fur babies. 

4. Stay Indoors at Dawn and Dusk

Dawn and dusk are peak hours for mosquito activity, as Aedes mosquitoes, the primary carriers of dengue, are crepuscular insects, meaning they are most active during twilight hours. These times coincide with periods when people are more likely to engage in outdoor activities, making them particularly vulnerable to mosquito bites. Factors such as body heat, sweat, and carbon dioxide emissions attract mosquitoes to humans, making outdoor activities during these times potentially risky. Implementing preventive measures such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and ensuring that outdoor spaces are properly screened can significantly reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites.

In the vibrant landscape of Singapore, where residents often seek relaxation and community engagement within their shared spaces, being mindful of mosquito activity hours is essential for a comfortable and safe lifestyle. By prioritising indoor activities or taking necessary precautions when venturing outdoors during dawn and dusk, residents can enjoy their homes and surroundings without the worry of mosquito bites or the threat of dengue fever looming overhead.

So there, now you have four easy yet effective steps to keep you and your family safe from dengue fever. By embracing these practices, we not only protect ourselves and our families but also contribute to the well-being of our communities. Together, let's build a future where the vibrancy of home living in Singapore is matched only by our commitment to health and safety.