Dengue Fever risk in Chennai

Dengue Fever Prevention Guide for Chennai Dengue is a viral infection spread by Aedes mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and rash. In severe cases, it can cause dengue hemorrhagic fever, which is life-threatening. Chennai's risk score of 70/100 reflects several local factors. The city's tropical climate with heavy monsoon rains from October to December creates ideal breeding conditions. Rapid urbanization, construction sites, and water storage practices in areas like T. Nagar, Anna Nagar, and the IT Corridor increase mosquito breeding. Many residents store water in open containers due to irregular supply, and discarded plastic waste collects rainwater. The Aedes mosquito breeds in clean, stagnant water found in flower pots, old tires, and rooftop tanks, and is most active during early morning and late afternoon. Actionable Prevention Steps: 1. Eliminate standing water around your home. Empty and scrub water containers weekly. Cover overhead tanks and sumps tightly. Discard unused tires, coconut shells, and plastic waste that collect rainwater. This is the single most effective step. 2. Use mosquito repellents containing DEET or picaridin during daytime hours, especially between 6 AM and 10 AM and 4 PM to 6 PM when Aedes mosquitoes bite most actively. Apply to exposed skin and clothing. 3. Install mosquito screens on windows and doors. Use bed nets during daytime naps, particularly for children and elderly family members who rest during peak biting hours. 4. Wear long-sleeved clothing and full-length pants when outdoors. Light-colored clothing is less attractive to mosquitoes. 5. Report stagnant water in public areas, construction sites, and abandoned plots to Greater Chennai Corporation helpline 1913. Community fogging during outbreak periods helps reduce mosquito populations citywide. If you develop sudden high fever with severe pain behind the eyes, seek medical attention immediately. Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen, as these increase bleeding risk. Paracetamol is safer for fever management.