Keeping Dengue Fever at Bay: A Year-Round Effort
With the arrival of the rainy season, residents are reminded to be especially vigilant against dengue fever. Dr. Juhai Triyanti Agustina, Head of the City Health Service, stresses the importance of continued vigilance, as dengue is a threat that doesn’t confine itself to any particular season.
“Suspected dengue or DHF cases reported up to November 16, 2024 (the 46th week) reached 1,874. These figures were collected from RSD Idaman Banjarbaru, RS Nirwana, and 10 Community Health Centers across the city,” Dr. Juhai explained on Tuesday.
While there haven’t been any significant spikes in cases, Dr. Juhai emphasizes the need for proactive measures to prevent the spread of dengue fever.
“We strongly encourage the public to actively participate in the Banjarbaru Simultaneous Movement to Sweep and Exterminate Larvae (Gertak Bapuputik).” This initiative, Dr. Juhai believes, can keep Banjarbaru safe if practiced diligently.
Targeting Breeding Grounds: A Community Effort
The Bapuputik movement is more than just a slogan; it’s a call to action, urging residents to eliminate potential breeding sites for the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary vector for dengue fever. Focusing on areas like gutters, stagnant water puddles, and discarded trash bins, this effort aims to disrupt the mosquito’s lifecycle by destroying larvae before they mature.
Dr. Juhai underscored the need for consistent action, stating, “Don’t wait until dengue fever strikes before taking preventive measures. Make Bapuputik a part of your weekly routine. Our collective discipline in maintaining a clean environment is crucial in preventing mosquitoes from breeding.”
Dengue Prevention: A Year-Round Responsibility
While the rainy season may heighten concerns, Dr. Juhai reminds us that dengue prevention is a responsibility that extends beyond any specific time of year.
“We must make these preventive measures a habit, not merely a seasonal response,” she said.
By concentrating our efforts on eliminating mosquito breeding grounds and encouraging consistent hygiene practices, we can create a safer and healthier environment for everyone, regardless of the season.
What are the key steps mentioned to prevent the breeding of dengue-carrying mosquitoes?
## Keeping Dengue Fever at Bay: A Year-Round Effort
**Interviewer:** Joining us today is Dr. Juhai Triyanti Agustina, Head of the City Health Service, to discuss the ongoing threat of dengue fever. Dr. Juhai, thanks for being with us.
**Dr. Juhai:** Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** With the rainy season in full swing, many people associate dengue fever with this time of year. However, you’ve stressed that dengue is a year-round concern. Can you elaborate on that?
**Dr. Juhai:** Absolutely. While mosquito breeding can increase during the rainy season, it’s important to understand that the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits dengue, can breed in stagnant water year-round. This means we need to be vigilant about eliminating potential breeding grounds regardless of the season.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of vigilance, we’ve seen reports of over 1,800 suspected dengue cases up to mid-November. While not a dramatic spike, is this cause for concern?
**Dr. Juhai:** Every case of suspected dengue is a concern. This number underscores the importance of continued preventive measures. We at the City Health Service are closely monitoring the situation and working with hospitals and community health centers to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.
**Interviewer:** What can residents do to protect themselves and their families from dengue?
**Dr. Juhai:** There are several things individuals can do. The most important is to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. This means emptying any standing water around your home, such as in flower pots, buckets, and old tires. We also encourage the use of mosquito nets, wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, and using insect repellent.
**Interviewer:** Dr. Juhai, thank you for your insights and for reminding us that dengue prevention is an ongoing effort.
**Dr. Juhai:** You’re welcome. I encourage everyone to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their communities safe.
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