As per WHO reports, countless people are affected by dengue infections globally every year. It is a mosquito-borne viral infection that is spread by Aedes mosquitoes. It usually takes 4-7 days to understand the symptoms. Since no vaccination is available for this disease, it is essential to prevent this condition as much as possible.
Moreover, this disease can even lead to death if it is not treated timely. In this regard, individuals can opt for an effective dengue insurance plan under pocket insurance to significantly cover the medical expenses of this disease. However, multiple myths and misconceptions surrounding dengue must be busted to manage the condition effectively.
Demystification of 7 Dengue Myths
Here are some myths surrounding this disease that one should stop believing right away:
Myth 1: Dengue transmits through any mosquito
This is not true at all. Dengue is only transmitted through the female Aedes mosquito. In fact, these mosquitoes can spread the infection only when they are themselves affected by it. During their feeding period, they bite more than one person during the daytime. One mosquito bite is sufficient to spread the virus and can severely affect a person.
Myth 2: Having a low platelet count means dengue fever
Low platelet count is one of the primary symptoms of dengue fever. But this condition does not mean that it is a sign of dengue. Besides low platelet count, the chance of suffering from dengue increases if you have a high fever. However, if only your platelet count drops, you may be suffering from other diseases, such as yellow fever, HIV, chikungunya, etc.
Myth 3: Papaya leaf cures dengue fever
Traditional medical science and Indian Ayurveda have been widely known across the world. When it comes to dengue fever, multiple herbs are used to cure it. In this regard, using papaya leaf is significantly impactful. This leaf can be used to manage the symptoms of dengue, but it can’t cure dengue. As per different studies, papaya leaf can increase the platelet count in patients infected with dengue.
Myth 4: Dengue infects only children and older people
This is incorrect. Dengue can infect anyone irrespective of one’s age, gender, or socioeconomic condition. However, multiple other factors increase the risk of getting infected by dengue disease. They include prior dengue fever and living in the tropical region.
Myth 5: Being infected by dengue once makes you immune for the entire life
Dengue virus consists of four serotypes named DEN-1,2,3 and 4. In case an individual is infected by serotype 1, he/she will be immune to the particular serotype and not to three others. Other serotypes can affect individuals. Next time, when one is affected by the infection, it will be more impactful than the previous one. As per calculation, an individual can get infected by dengue four/five times in his/her lifetime.
Myth 6: Dengue fever is harmless and mild
There are both severe and mild cases of dengue. If proper treatment is availed on time, one may experience mild symptoms. If the treatment is delayed, it can lead to complications such as liver failure, internal bleeding, liver failure, etc. These symptoms can even lead to a patient’s death.
Myth 7: A clean house prevents dengue fever
Although keeping the house clean is considered one of the most effective measures to keep oneself protected from dengue, it does not confirm 100% safety from the disease. Keeping the surroundings clean is also essential to avoid this disease. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the infection and its breeding grounds to keep the infection away from you.
There are so many myths that spread faster than these diseases. Following a healthy lifestyle, keeping your house and surroundings clean, and adopting necessary precautions against mosquitoes can be some of the effective ways to reduce the risk of getting affected by dengue or malaria.
One can also purchase a comprehensive dengue insurance cover at just Rs. 299/year from a diversified to meet the expenses incurred during the treatment. Individuals above the age of 18 years can purchase this policy under the pocket insurance segment following a simple application process.
To conclude, the guide mentioned above has been provided for individuals to prevent them from falling into the trap of misconceptions. One must follow the necessary precautions to create a dengue-free environment. Also, purchasing a dengue insurance plan from reputed insurers will offer an effective solution to policyholders without worrying about finances.
Reference links:
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/7-myths-about-dengue-and-malaria-you-must-stop-believing/articleshow/60968501.cms
https://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/top-7-dengue-myths-busted-for-you-688124/
https://www.godrejhit.com/blogs/my-dengue-recovery-journey-busting-5-dengue-myths-for-you
https://www.india.com/lifestyle/top-5-dengue-myths-busted-for-you-3835115/
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