As Guangdong Province grapples with scorching temperatures and frequent rainfall, mosquito populations have surged into a rapid breeding phase, leading to a sharp rise in mosquito-borne diseases. As of July 20, a cumulative total of 2,158 confirmed cases of Chikungunya fever have been reported in Shunde District, Foshan.
The Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Guangdong CDC) issued an urgent public health alert on July 21, urging residents to enhance preventive measures against the outbreaks of Chikungunya fever and the rapid escalation of dengue fever cases.
1. Eliminate Breeding Sites
Indoor Precautions
· Change water weekly in potted plants.
· Drain idle bowls, buckets, and water dispenser trays in kitchens and bathrooms immediately after use.
Outdoor Operations:
· Systematically inspect yards, balconies, terraces, and green spaces for potential breeding sites.
· Remove stagnant water from discarded tires, plastic waste, and bamboo stumps without delay.
· Dispose of unused beverage cans and food boxes properly, or invert them to prevent water accumulation.
2. Exterminate Adult Mosquitoes
When adult mosquitoes are found at home, residents can use commercially available insecticides with certified numbers, such as insecticide aerosols, mosquito coils, and mosquito-killing tablets, to eliminate them.
Key protocols include:
· Seal the rooms during the application of insecticides.
· Vacate the premises for 30-60 minutes after treatment.
· Ensure 20 minutes of ventilation before re-entering.
· Utilize electric mosquito swatters additionally for targeted extermination.
3. Prevent Bites Through Multi-Layered Protection
Indoor Defense:
· Install fine-mesh screens (≤0.9mm aperture) on doors and windows.
Optionally, pre-treat screens with residual insecticides.
· Use bed nets during sleep.
Outdoor Precautions:
· Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing.
· Avoid shaded areas during peak mosquito activity (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).
· Apply DEET-based repellents on exposed skin and clothing.
4. Travel Safety Protocols
Pre-departure: Research the disease status of your destination.
Post-return: Monitor your health for 14 days; seek immediate medical attention for fever, joint pain, or rashes while disclosing your travel history.
5. Prompt Medical Attention
Residents experiencing symptoms such as sudden fever, severe joint or muscle pain, or skin rashes—particularly those who have recently traveled to endemic areas or have confirmed mosquito bites—should seek professional evaluation immediately.
Reporter | Chen Jinxia
Editor | Hu Nan, James, Shen He
