The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) warned the public of dengue fever risks and reminded them how it can be prevented as part of the country's observance of Dengue Awareness month this June.

PRC explained that dengue fever is caused by a dengue-carrying mosquito that can pass the virus on humans through a bite.

It causes severe flu-like illness and can progress into life-threatening conditions if not early detected and medicated: dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome.

To stop the spread and growth of dengue-carrying mosquitos, PRC reminded the public to keep in mind and practice the "4S Kontra dengue:"

"Search and Destroy: Cover water drums and pails; Replace water in flower vases once a week; Clean gutters of leaves and debris; Collect and dispose of all unusable tin cans, jars, bottles, and other items that can collect and hold water.

Self-Protection Measures: Wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt; Use mosquito repellent every day.

Seek Early Consultation: Consult the doctors immediately if fever persists after 2 days and rashes appear.

Say Yes to misting when there is an impending outbreak or a hotspot."

PRC also warned the public to not give aspirin as a fever medication to suspected dengue cases and to make sure that the person is well hydrated. And if the fever or other symptoms persist for more than two days, bring the patient immediately to the nearest hospital.

Other symptoms include sudden onset of high fever lasting from two to seven days, joint and muscle pain and pain behind the eyes, weakness, skin rashes, nose bleeding when fever starts to subside, abdominal pain, vomiting of coffee-colored matter; dark-colored stools, and difficulty of breathing, said the PRC. (Luisa Cabato)