Article - Ways to Prevent Dengue

Recent statistics of dengue cases and fatalities in Malaysia

are ringing alarm bells across the country.The number of
deaths has doubled from five deaths in 2013 to 10 deaths in
2014, all within the same period.The mosquito that is
responsible for transmitting the virus,Aedes aegypti, is living
amongst us.Therefore, drastic measures are needed to
squash this dengue menace from spreading and causing more
deaths in Malaysia.
First and foremost,don't leave stagnant water in flower
pots.Don't leave empty flower pots in upright position.Put
some larvae insecticide in potted plants.Rear some fish in
stagnant pond to control the population of mosquito larvae.We
can also hold gotong-royong activities to clean up our housing
area.We can co-operate with our neighbours to destroy the
breeding spots of mosquitoes,especially the drains and piles
of rubbish.We should also clean the flower pots regularly.
Secondly,government and other non-government
authorities(NGOs) can play their role by holding
campaigns.The anti-dengue campaigns can be held to bring
awareness to the public on the dangers of dengue and ways
to prevent it.Furthermore,they should also inspect housing
areas which have a high risk of dengue fever.Government
should fine those who throw rubbish into river and
indiscriminately.As a result, thrown rubbish will end up
clogging up drains and this will give an opportunity for
mosquitoes to breed.
Next,government should implement stringent laws. Such as,
fining irresponsible house contractors who leave building
materials unattended.Public Works Department also should
repair roads which have potholes.These roads can hold water
when it rains.Government should regulate rubbish collection
in a more proper manner. Rubbish disposal areas should not
be left unattended.This will give the Aedes mosquito an
opportunity to breed.
In conclusion,dengue fever can be greatly reduced when
the public takes heed and co-operates with government
bodies to eradicate the dengue menace.As the saying
goes,Prevention is better than cure.