1. **Warmth**:
Mosquitoes, which transmit both malaria and dengue, thrive in warm
temperatures. As summer brings higher temperatures, it creates optimal
conditions for mosquitoes to breed and spread.
2. **Standing Water**:
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, and summer often brings more rainfall or
irrigation, leading to an increase in standing water. This provides ample
breeding grounds for mosquitoes, allowing their populations to flourish.
3. **Increased Outdoor Activity**:
During the summer, people tend to spend more time outdoors, especially during
evenings when mosquitoes are most active. This increases the likelihood of
mosquito bites and transmission of diseases like malaria and dengue.
4. **Travel**:
Summer is a popular time for travel, including to regions where malaria and
dengue are endemic. Tourists may inadvertently bring these diseases back to
their home regions if they're not careful.
To stay safe from mosquito-borne diseases:
1. **Use Mosquito Repellent**: Apply
insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to
exposed skin.
2. **Wear Protective Clothing**: Wear
long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes to minimize skin
exposure.
3. **Use Mosquito Nets**: Sleep
under mosquito nets, especially in areas where malaria is prevalent.
4. **Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours**: Stay
indoors during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
5. **Eliminate Standing Water**:
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so eliminate sources of standing water
around your home, such as in flower pots, buckets, and birdbaths.
6. **Stay Informed**: Be
aware of malaria and dengue risk areas if you're traveling and take appropriate
precautions, such as taking prophylactic medications or using mosquito nets.
By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce
your risk of contracting malaria, dengue, and other mosquito-borne diseases
during the summer months.