VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

VOINews, Jakarta: Summer can trigger mosquitoes to breed quickly. The danger is even greater because some types of mosquitoes have the potential to transmit serious diseases such as dengue fever (DHF). Quoting a written statement from the Ministry of Health, DHF is not a mild disease. If not treated properly, it can cause serious complications and is even potentially deadly. It is known that the cumulative number of dengue cases in Indonesia is 114,720 cases with 894 deaths throughout 2023 (Antara data 21/3/2024). Therefore, prevention is a step that should not be ignored.

It is important to apply the right preventive measures, and take early action if symptoms appear. How to Prevent Dengue Fever can be done with 3M Plus:

First, Draining Water Containers
Stagnant water in used goods or holes caused by rain are ideal places for the Aedes Aegypti mosquito to breed. Therefore, draining water reservoirs such as bathtubs, flower pots, or other places that can hold water is the first step in prevention.

Second, Close Water Containers
Make sure all water reservoirs are tightly sealed to prevent mosquitoes from entering and laying eggs in them. This will also help reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Third, Recycle Used Items
Used items such as plastic bottles, old tyres, and other places that can hold water should be recycled or disposed of properly. Avoid storing used items that can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

In addition to the 3M above, there are several additional (plus) steps that can be taken, among others:

Planting Mosquito Repellent Plants: Some plants such as lavender, lemongrass, and mint have natural mosquito repellent properties. Planting these plants around the house can help reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Conduct Regular Checks of Water Reservoirs: Apart from draining, conduct regular inspections of water reservoirs to ensure that no mosquitoes breed in them.

Keep Mosquito Breeding Fish: Fish such as guppies and goldfish are mosquito larvae eaters. Keeping these fish in water tanks can help control the mosquito population.

Preventing Dengue Fever (DHF) is a shared responsibility. By recognising the symptoms, implementing the 3M Plus prevention measures, and taking early action if symptoms appear, we can protect ourselves, our families, and the environment from the serious threat of DHF. Let's unite in our efforts to fight this disease for the health and well-being of us all.

Source: Indonesian Ministry of Health