Dengue Fever risk in Mangalore

DENGUE FEVER PREVENTION GUIDE FOR MANGALORE RESIDENTS Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and in serious cases, bleeding and organ damage. Mangalore's risk score of 70/100 reflects significant local vulnerability. LOCAL RISK FACTORS IN MANGALORE Mangalore's tropical coastal climate with heavy monsoon rainfall creates ideal breeding conditions for dengue-carrying mosquitoes. Stagnant water accumulates in construction sites across the city's expanding urban areas, discarded coconut shells common in the region, uncovered water storage tanks in homes, blocked drainage systems in older localities like Hampankatta and Kankanady, and dense vegetation in residential areas. The city's high humidity year-round supports continuous mosquito breeding cycles unlike seasonal patterns seen elsewhere. ACTIONABLE PREVENTION STEPS 1. Eliminate standing water weekly. Check and empty flower pot trays, coolers, buckets, discarded tires, and coconut shells around your home every morning. Aedes mosquitoes breed in clean, stagnant water and are daytime biters, most active during early morning and late afternoon hours. 2. Protect yourself during peak biting hours. Wear full-sleeved clothing and use DEET-based repellent when stepping out between 6 to 10 AM and 4 to 6 PM. Install window mesh screens, especially in homes near marshy areas or open drains. 3. Cover water storage completely. Mangalore households commonly store water due to supply irregularities. Use tight-fitting lids on all tanks and containers. Add mosquito larvae-eating fish like guppies in decorative ponds that cannot be drained. 4. Report breeding sites. Contact Mangalore City Corporation's health department or dial the local helpline to report stagnant water in public areas, construction sites, or abandoned properties near your residence. 5. Recognise warning signs early. Seek immediate medical help if fever persists beyond two days with severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums, or extreme fatigue. Early detection prevents progression to dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.