What should we do to prevent the spread of dengue fever?  

128 new cases of dengue fever were recorded on October 18, while 28,658 cases have been reported in Laos since January, including 22 fatalities. Even though the rainy season is tailing off, the virus is still being transmitted. Vientiane Times asked members of the public what needs to be done to stay safe from this debilitating illness.

--Photo Centre of Information and Education for Health

Mr Khamphan Vivongsa, a resident of Luang Prabang province: I know that public health officials are trying to encourage everyone to do what’s needed to get rid of dengue-carrying mosquitoes, but this disease continues to kill people. I think many people don’t understand the importance of this or simply can’t be bothered to do what’s necessary, especially in remote areas. A lot of people ignore the advice they are given, which doesn’t help the rest of us. We need to do a lot more to prevent mosquitoes from breeding by cleaning in and around our homes so that we get rid of any stagnant water. And everyone should be given more and clearer information about ways to prevent dengue fever.

Ms Noy Chanthavong, a resident of Xayaboury province: Life seems to get harder every day. It’s surprising that the dengue virus is so prevalent right now because we mostly associate it with the rainy season. As we know, preventing dengue is as simple as preventing mosquito bites. I think we should strictly follow the advice given by public health officials such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Use mosquito repellent, turn on a fan, and make sure you have mosquito netting. Close windows, doors and screens to stop mosquitoes getting into enclosed spaces. Avoid areas with standing water, especially at times of high mosquito activity like dawn and dusk.

Ms Sounita, a government official in Sisattanak district, Vientiane: Obviously we have to be on our guard against dengue fever at all times of the year. I try to clean around my house to keep the mosquito population down, as this is the most effective method of curbing dengue. The main interventions for dengue prevention are the reduction of mosquitoes and increasing awareness in at-risk communities. I urge everyone to do more to prevent the spread of dengue fever. We should cooperate in our local communities to reduce the mosquito population as much as possible.
Ms Taeng Inthavong, a resident of Luang Prabang province: I try to do as advised to stop the transmission of dengue fever by getting rid of stagnant water and bushing out areas around my house. I think we can tackle this disease if we make sure there are no pools of stagnant water in our neighbourhoods. In addition, everyone should use a mosquito net when sleeping. It’s best to use a net that’s been treated with insecticide as this will deter mosquitoes, and people can also use the nets to cover open windows or doors. The authorities should run more publicity campaigns to advise people how to keep dengue at bay.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update October 20, 2022)