Prolonged fever, sign of dengue

Nadira GUNATILLEKE

TAKE NOTE

The dengue mosquito is said to be more active from 6am to 10am and from 4pm to 6.30pm and has extended its stinging period to 11pm.

Around 17,000 dengue cases and 85 dengue deaths have been reported from all parts of the country to date, Health Ministry Epidemiology Unit Director Dr Paba Palihawadana said yesterday. Dr Palihawadana said a person suffering from fever for over three days should seek medical treatment as it could be dengue fever.

A downward swing has been noticed in the spread of the disease but the public needs to be vigilant if fever prevails for over three days, she said.

Dr Palihawadana said the public should pay special attention to keep their surroundings clean.

“Mosquito breeding sites inside buildings and other locations should be destroyed. Destroying mosquito breeding spots is the most effective method of controlling dengue,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Health Ministry cautioned the public that the dengue mosquito is said to be more active from 6am to 10am and from 4pm to 6.30pm and has extended its stinging period to 11pm. Entomological surveys have also revealed the dengue mosquito is a double breeder and is the most powerful of all mosquitoes.