
By The Star Staff
For International Anti-Dengue Day, which is today, Health Secretary Carlos Mellado López is calling on citizens to strengthen prevention and control measures against dengue by knowing and identifying its symptoms early.
“Early detection and seeking timely medical care are essential for the effective management of the disease,” Mellado López said in a written statement. “We urge the population to be alert to these symptoms and to consult a health professional if they suspect anything.”
“It is crucial to recognize that dengue can evolve rapidly and, in some cases, become complicated,” the Health chief added. “The disease can progress to more serious forms, such as severe dengue, which can be life-threatening if not managed properly. Early detection and continuous monitoring of symptoms are essential to prevent complications and receive appropriate treatment on time.”
Today’s observance aims to raise awareness and encourage effective actions to combat the viral disease that is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Dengue symptoms can vary in intensity, but the most common ones include: a sudden and significant increase in body temperature (fever), severe pain in the joints and muscles, acute and persistent headaches, the appearance of a skin rash, and nausea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration. Dengue can also cause bleeding from the gums or nose.
To reduce the risk of dengue, it is important to take preventive measures, such as: eliminating mosquito breeding sites in and around homes, using repellents and protective clothing, and keeping the environment clean and free of stagnant water, where mosquitoes can breed.
Community collaboration is essential to control the spread of dengue.
“Prevention and education are our best tools to protect the health and well-being of everyone,” Mellado López said. “During this day, teams from the Epidemiology and Research and Environmental Health divisions of the Health Department, as well as collaborators, have educational activities in Aguada, Caguas, Canóvanas, Guayama, Guaynabo, Juncos, Lares, Mayagüez, Moca, Río Grande and San Juan. We invite you to look for the calendar on the Department of Health’s social networks to participate in the activities of the day or week.”
More information about dengue and how to prevent it can be found at www.salud.pr.gov/dengue.
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