2023-07-19 11:43:24
Sor Kor. 12, Songkhla Warns of Influenza Outbreaks in Schools, Urges Prevention Measures
SONGKHLA – The Office of Disease Prevention and Control 12, Songkhla Province (Sor Kor. 12 Songkhla) has issued a warning regarding the potential outbreak of influenza in schools and educational establishments. With the onset of the rainy season and the fluctuating weather conditions, the chances of encountering influenza patients increase significantly. Sor Kor. 12 Songkhla advises schools and educational establishments to establish screening systems for sick children in order to prevent the spread of infection.
To raise awareness and encourage prevention, Sor Kor. 12 Songkhla recommends the implementation of the “Close, Wash, Avoid, Stop” measures to prevent all strains of influenza. These measures involve maintaining close contact with sick individuals, frequent hand-washing, avoiding crowded places, and refraining from activities in such settings.
The latest data from the Disease Surveillance Report System 506, Division of Epidemiology, reveals that from January 1 to July 12, 2023, Thailand has reported a cumulative total of 67,460 cases of influenza, with no reported deaths. In the 12th health zone, which includes Songkhla Province, 6,781 patients were found, again with no reported deaths. Phatthalung had the highest number of cases (1,791), followed by Narathiwat (1,666), and Songkhla (1,541).
Dr. Chalermpol Osotpromma, Office Director of Disease Prevention and Control at 12 Songkhla Province, stressed the significance of schools and educational institutions as high-risk sources for influenza outbreaks due to the large number of children gathered together. He emphasized the need for a screening system for sick children and the importance of wearing masks to prevent infection. Sick students should be separated and parents should be contacted to take them to see a doctor and rest at home.
Additionally, schools are encouraged to organize influenza campaign activities and promote awareness among students and parents. Hygienic mask-wearing, regular hand-washing, and avoiding crowded places unnecessarily are among the recommended precautions.
Influenza viruses are transmitted through respiratory droplets such as snot, saliva, or phlegm. Coughing, sneezing, breathing together, or touching surfaces contaminated with the virus can also spread the infection. Sor Kor. 12 Songkhla advises students and the public to adopt the “close, wash, avoid, stop” measures to prevent all strains of influenza.
The preventive measures recommended are as follows:
1. Close: Cover the mouth and nose with a cloth or tissue when coughing or sneezing. If sick with influenza, wearing a mask is crucial to prevent the spread of infection.
2. Wash: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching objects such as doorknobs, handrails, and surfaces in public transportation.
3. Avoid: Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
4. Stop: If unwell, it is important to avoid studying, working, and engaging in activities in crowded places. Even those with mild symptoms are advised to stay at home until they recover.
It is important to seek medical attention within two days if experiencing a high fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches. For further information, the Department of Disease Control hotline can be reached at Tel. 1422.
News Information and Sources:
Correspondent: Sutida Phruekudom
Composer: Kanokporn Prasong
Source: Songkhla Provincial Public Relations Office]
#Sor #Kor #Songkhla #warns #careful #influenza #epidemic #schools #adhering #principle #close #clean #avoid