The onset of a rather warm winter is triggering seasonal epidemics by mosquito-borne viruses and medical experts are warning residents to ensure that mosquitoes do not breed in their homes or in their neighborhoods.
A local survey has indicated that several doctors have reported a dramatic rise in the number of patients bitten by mosquitoes and presenting symptoms of fever, muscle and joint pains and headaches. Doctors are also warning of the dengue fever bug which causes similar symptoms accompanied by a skin rash akin to measles which is considered deadly.
Dr. Khalid Abdullah, a medical specialist at a government hospital said: “The seasonal spike in mosquitoes is playing a role in the spread of viral diseases and we have issued a notice to residents to take preventive measures to protect themselves from mosquitoes.”
Meanwhile, the municipality has stepped up efforts to eradicate mosquito breeding areas by spraying chemicals in residential units, schools, gardens, mosques and other public spaces.
Municipal officials are also urging residents in institutions, hospitals, schools and markets to cooperate in the prevention of mosquito-borne diseases by checking their premises regularly and prevent water stagnation, unclean drains and garbage heaps lying unattended as these places are perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Medical experts also said that malaria-carrying mosquitoes have been detected in the city along with a few cases of dengue fever. People traveling to infected destinations are at risk of acquiring these diseases. They are advised to check with their general practitioner and take the necessary precautions.
