Observed Every Year on May 16

National Dengue Day is observed every year on May 16 across India to raise awareness about dengue fever and to promote preventive strategies. This important health observance is led by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, especially as India faces seasonal outbreaks of dengue during the monsoon months.

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Theme for 2025:

“Act Early, Prevent Dengue: Clean Surroundings, Healthy Living”

This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of early action and cleanliness to combat the spread of dengue. It calls on individuals, families, communities, and local authorities to work together for a healthier environment and a dengue-free India.

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What is Dengue?

Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. These mosquitoes usually bite during the daytime, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.

Dengue can range from mild to severe, and without early treatment, it can lead to life-threatening complications like dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.

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Common Symptoms of Dengue

• Sudden high fever
• Severe headaches
• Pain behind the eyes
• Joint and muscle pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Rashes
• Mild bleeding (nose or gums)

Immediate medical attention is crucial if any of these symptoms appear.

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Prevention Starts with Cleanliness

As the 2025 theme highlights, keeping surroundings clean is the first step in stopping mosquito breeding. Aedes mosquitoes breed in clean, stagnant water—often found in containers left open around homes and buildings.

Preventive Measures:

• Empty and clean water containers regularly
• Cover overhead tanks and water storage units
• Use mosquito repellents and nets
• Wear full-sleeved clothing during peak mosquito hours
• Keep indoor and outdoor areas clean and dry

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Role of National Dengue Day

National Dengue Day helps in:

• Educating the public on dengue prevention
• Promoting early detection and medical care
• Mobilizing community efforts for cleanliness
• Supporting government initiatives and health programs

Various health camps, rallies, school activities, and awareness drives are organized across the country on this day.

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Government and Community Action

The government, along with local municipalities and health departments, carries out:

• Door-to-door awareness campaigns
• Fumigation and spraying in mosquito-prone areas
• School and college-based education drives
• Use of social media and media channels to spread messages