Lecture Notes: Dengue Prevention and Dangers of Alcohol-Based Mouthwash

Overview

• Discussion on Dengue and its prevention during the monsoon season
• Examination of the risks associated with using alcohol-based mouthwash
• Health tips regarding the consumption of curd with salt or sugar.

Dengue During Monsoon Season

Why Dengue Increases During Monsoon

• Water accumulates in various places, leading to breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
• Specifically, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes increase in number.
• These mosquitoes are carriers of the Dengue virus, spreading it from person to person.

Symptoms of Dengue

• High fever with severe body pain
• Chills and persistent fever
• Joint and muscle pain
• Severe abdominal pain and bloating
• Sometimes vomiting and diarrhea
• Lethargy and occasional cough
• Symptoms worsen over 3-5 days, with a rash appearing, followed by a drop in platelets leading to hemorrhages.
• The drop in platelets can occur even after the fever subsides.

Effects on the Nervous System

• Because it is a neurotropic virus, it affects muscles, nerves, and the brain.
• Symptoms: muscle pain, weakness, joint pain, paralysis (GBS), severe headache, unconsciousness, behavioral changes, and seizures.
• Brain-specific effects are termed Dengue encephalopathy or Dengue encephalitis.
• Low platelet count can lead to brain hemorrhage, causing headache, vomiting, unconsciousness, paralysis, and seizures.

Prevention Strategies

Personal Level

• Clear stagnant water around the house (e.g., coolers, plant pots, tubs, gardens).
• Use mosquito repellents and keep the body covered to reduce exposure.
• Use mosquito nets, especially during the day when Aedes mosquitoes are most active.
• Stay hydrated and consume antioxidant-rich foods to boost immunity.

Community and Government Levels

• Ensure community spaces remain clean and free of water pools.
• Engage in community efforts to prevent water accumulation and breeding sites for mosquitoes.

Risks of Alcohol-Based Mouthwash

Study Insights

• Conducted by the Institute of Tropical Medicine, Belgium.
• Published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology.
• 59 participants used alcohol-based mouthwash for 3 months.
• Result: Increase in Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus anginosus, both linked to cancer.

Dangers Explained

• Alcohol-based mouthwashes can damage the inner lining of the mouth, killing good bacteria.
• Broken down to acetaldehyde in the body, which is carcinogenic and damages DNA.
• Dry mouth risk: Reduces saliva production, leading to dryness, irritation, ulcer risk, and teeth staining.
• Alcohol increases levels of hormones like estrogen and insulin, raising cancer risk by increasing cell division.
• Non-alcohol-based mouthwashes are a safer alternative.

Health Tip: Curd - With Salt or Sugar?

Nutritional Benefits of Curd

• Rich in protein, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins.
• Probiotic properties aid digestion and boost immunity.

Curd with Salt

• Salt balances acidity, making digestion easier.
• Suitable for those with low sodium or electrolyte levels.
• Not advisable for people with high blood pressure.

Curd with Sugar

• Sugar provides quick energy due to its carbohydrate content.
• Diabetics and those aiming for weight control should avoid it due to high-calorie content.
• Alternatives: Use jaggery or rock sugar (mishri) instead of regular sugar.

Conclusion

• Choose curd preparation based on individual health needs and preferences.

Conclusion

• Emphasize cleanliness to prevent dengue.
• Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes due to cancer risks.
• Make informed dietary choices based on health status.