Dengue cases on the rise in Bengaluru; how eco-friendly mosquito repellents can help curb its spread
Bengaluru is witnessing a rise in dengue cases due to heavy monsoon rains. The BBMP has introduced eco-friendly mosquito killer products to prevent the spread of the disease. Eco-friendly mosquito killer products are a safe, sustainable and effective way to protect yourself from mosquitoes. Read on to know about some effective eco-friendly mosquito control methods to keep yourself and your family safe.
Dengue cases on the rise in Bengaluru (Photo courtesy: iStock)
As monsoon rains continue in Bengaluru, the city is witnessing a worrying rise in Covid-19 cases. Dengue cases. The situation has become worrisome for both residents and health officials as mosquitoes have started breeding in waterlogged areas. As a result, the BBMP has started a new initiative to prevent mosquito breeding… eco friendly mosquito killerTo prevent the spread of the disease. This eco-friendly method involves placing buckets filled with water containing certain chemicals that attract mosquitoes to public places and kill them.
According to officials, these eco-friendly mosquito nets will be installed every 50 metres to control mosquitoes. Officials said they need to check how effective these nets are in controlling mosquito breeding. The BBMP’s health wing has appointed 115 inspection officers to conduct surveys, identify mosquito breeding spots and take preventive measures accordingly. According to BBMP health officials, over 10,000 dengue cases were reported in Bengaluru in June and July.
Symptoms of Dengue
High fever: One of the symptoms of dengue fever is a sudden high fever, which usually lasts from 2 to 7 days. The fever is often accompanied by profuse sweating and chills.
Severe headaches: Dengue fever is often accompanied by severe headaches. These headaches can be frontal or retro-orbital (behind the eyes) and are often described as throbbing or pounding pain.
Pain behind the eyes: Many people with dengue fever experience pain behind the eyes, known as retro-orbital pain. This symptom is often aggravated by eye movements.
Muscle and joint pain: Dengue fever typically causes severe muscle and joint pain, often referred to as “breakbone fever” because of the extreme discomfort it causes.
Eco-friendly mosquito killer products to protect yourself
Here are some effective eco-friendly mosquito control methods to keep you and your family safe:
Mosquito net
Eco-friendly mosquito traps are designed to attract and catch mosquitoes using natural lures such as carbon dioxide, heat and water vapor. Once inside the trap, mosquitoes cannot escape and eventually die. These traps are non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets.
Essential Oil Repellents
Natural essential oils such as citronella, eucalyptus, lavender and tea tree oil are known for their mosquito-repellent properties. These oils can be used in diffusers, candles or as sprays to keep mosquitoes away.
Mosquito repellent plants
Some plants naturally repel mosquitoes because of their strong scent. Planting them around your home can help reduce the number of mosquitoes in your surroundings. Some effective mosquito-repellent plants are:
– Citronella Grass: Widely known for its use in citronella candles, this plant emits a strong lemon-like scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant.
– Marigold: These bright flowers contain a compound called pyrethrum, which is used in many insect repellents.
– Lavender: Besides its calming scent, lavender is also effective at keeping mosquitoes away.
– Basil: Basil is not only great for cooking, but its strong aroma also helps keep mosquitoes away.
Natural mosquito repellent sprays
There are many eco-friendly mosquito repellent sprays available that use natural ingredients instead of harmful chemicals like DEET. These sprays often contain a blend of essential oils and other natural compounds that are effective at repelling mosquitoes. They are safe to use on skin, clothing, and outdoor areas.
uv light mosquito trap
UV light mosquito traps emit light to attract mosquitoes by mimicking the natural cues mosquitoes use to find food sources. Once mosquitoes are attracted to the light, they are captured or killed by an electric grid within the device. These traps are chemical-free and safe for use both indoors and outdoors.
mosquito repellent clothing
If you’re spending time outdoors, especially in mosquito-prone areas, consider wearing mosquito repellent clothing. These clothing are treated with natural insect-repellent substances such as permethrin (a biodegradable insecticide) or essential oils, which provide long-lasting protection against mosquito bites.
Elimination of standing water
One of the most effective ways to control mosquitoes is to eliminate their breeding sites. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so regularly check and empty all containers in which water collects, such as flower pots, bird baths and drains.
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