Massive dengue cases are on the rise in France, Europe's most popular tourist destination. French scientists are currently fighting to contain the outbreak in Provence.
So far, 47 people have been affected by the fever spread by infected Asian tiger mosquitoes, The Sun reported.
This type of bloodsucking species, characteristic of the tropics, currently lives locally in France, but scientists predict that within four or five years they will spread throughout the country. What's more, the same scientists claim that the insects will become commonplace in the UK in just a decade.
Cases of mass dengue infections are on the rise in France, Europe's most popular tourist destination. French scientists are currently fighting to contain the outbreak in Provence.
So far, 47 people have been affected by the fever spread by infected Asian tiger mosquitoes, The Sun reported.
This type of bloodsucking species, characteristic of the tropics, currently lives locally in France, but scientists predict that within four or five years they will spread throughout the country. What's more, the same scientists claim that insects will become commonplace in the UK in just a decade.
Help: Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. As a rule, female Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes bite. You can recognize them by black and white stripes on the body. The virus incubates inside the mosquito for 8-10 days and accumulates in its salivary glands.
Bloodsuckers can bite during the day in cloudy weather and at night. Mosquitoes move nimbly close to the ground, their buzzing is almost inaudible
Already, dengue is the second most commonly identified cause of fever in unhealthy foreign travelers. So, Dr. Irene Lai, medical director of the International SOS group, said the following: “Dengue is transmitted through mosquito bites. This is a growing problem, as cases increase, outbreaks become larger and more widespread, and the disease appears in new areas. Dengue, like most diseases, causes a range of illnesses. As a rule, dengue does not pose a serious danger, but in some cases, people may experience severe headaches, high fever, and notice a rash. In the most severe cases, this can lead to bleeding and organ failure, which can be fatal.”
There is no vaccine for dengue fever for travelers. To prevent it, tourists should follow some security measures. So, to reduce the risk of bites, it is possible to use repellents, wearing clothes that cover the whole body, using mosquito nets.
Currently, mosquitoes take the “last bloody meal” before hibernating. In other words, they are desperately looking for people to bite.
Bite prevention expert and head of mosquito control company Howard Carter recommended sticking to the Cloaking Method (CLOAK) to avoid being bitten.
CLOAK stands for:
- C – Cover your arms and legs with suitable clothing.
- L – Light colored clothing is highly recommended.
- O– Odors, bodily or otherwise, such as certain scents and perfumes, attract mosquitoes. Therefore, wash thoroughly, including exfoliating with a washcloth, and do not use perfume.
- A – Apply an effective, preferably natural insect repellent.
- K< /strong> – Stay away from stagnant water whenever possible.
The specialist explained what parts of the body mosquitoes like to bite and how people can avoid these creatures: “Many mosquitoes land on the ears, wrists and ankles, because that is where the skin is thinner and the blood vessels are located closer to the surface. This is one of the reasons why women tend to get bitten more than men.
So, it is recommended to wash your face with a loofah soap containing citronella, then spray and use a moisturizer containing citronellol. But always spray last. Try burning incense sticks containing Java citronella, a substance that greatly reduces your attractiveness to insects. The light smoke they give off further helps deter them. Place the incense stick in a safe place, set fire to its tip, then blow out the flame. Keep it away from children and animals.”
Perfume, on the other hand, can have the opposite effect: some scents actually attract insects rather than repel them. “It is also important to avoid any aromatic components. Some scents, such as lavender combinations, actually attract insects – just take a closer look at a lavender bush. Be aware that most toiletries and sunscreens, as well as most fabric softeners, contain fragrance. Watch your scent. Use protective equipment on any exposed skin and spray clothing; mosquitoes can bite through fabric, even thick jeans. Before entering, apply insect repellant to and around the door, as mosquitoes often lie in wait outside doors and windows, and this simple procedure helps to keep them away.
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