Dengue Fever risk in Lomé

Dengue Fever Prevention Guide for Lomé What is Dengue Fever: Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, which are active during daytime hours. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint pain, rash, and in severe cases, life-threatening complications. There is no specific treatment, making prevention essential. Risk Score for Lomé: 68/100 — moderate to high risk due to tropical climate, urban density, and seasonal mosquito activity. Local Risk Factors in Lomé: - Tropical climate with year-round warmth and humidity - Frequent rainfall creating stagnant water breeding sites in urban areas - Dense population in neighborhoods with limited drainage - Daytime-biting mosquitoes common near markets, homes, and workplaces - Seasonal peaks during rainy periods increasing transmission 5 Actionable Prevention Steps: 1. Eliminate standing water daily. Empty and scrub containers, tires, buckets, and flower pots near your home. Cover water storage tightly. Mosquitoes breed in clean, still water. 2. Apply DEET-based repellent every morning before leaving home. Reapply every 4-6 hours when outdoors. Wear long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito hours, especially early morning and late afternoon. 3. Sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets even during daytime naps. Install window screens and repair gaps in doors and walls where mosquitoes enter. 4. Clean gutters and drains around your compound weekly. Report blocked public drainage to local authorities to reduce neighborhood breeding sites. 5. Keep emergency supplies ready: oral rehydration salts, paracetamol for fever, and a thermometer. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen, which worsen bleeding risks. If you experience sudden high fever with severe pain, seek medical care immediately and inform your healthcare provider about recent mosquito exposure.