Fact Check: Dengue & Chikungunya

Myth: Dengue spreads from person to person.

Fact: Dengue is transmitted only through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes.

Myth: You can get chikungunya more than once.

Fact: Once recovered, your body builds lifelong immunity against chikungunya.

Myth: Papaya leaf juice cures dengue.

Fact: There is no scientific evidence supporting this. It may help with platelets, but it is not a cure.

Myth: Only children get chikungunya.

Fact: Chikungunya affects people of all ages.

Myth: Chikungunya is fatal.

Fact: While it causes severe joint pain, death is extremely rare.

Myth: Dengue only occurs during the rainy season.

Fact: Though most common during monsoon, Aedes mosquitoes can breed in stagnant water year-round.

Myth: Using mosquito coils is enough to prevent dengue.

Fact: Mosquito coils reduce bites indoors, but cannot replace removing breeding sites and using repellents.

Myth: Clear water doesn't breed mosquitoes.

Fact: Aedes mosquitoes prefer clean, stagnant water to lay eggs—like in flowerpots, tires, or open containers.

Myth: Chikungunya and dengue are the same disease.

Fact: They are caused by different viruses, but transmitted by the same Aedes mosquito. Symptoms also vary.

Myth: You must always get hospitalized for dengue.

Fact: Many dengue cases are mild and can be managed at home with proper care and hydration.