2023-07-25 11:53:00
Dengue Fever Outbreak in Thailand: Urgent Measures Needed to Prevent Further Spread
July 25, Thailand – Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, has expressed concern over the alarming rise in dengue fever cases in the country. According to recent reports, one province has recorded a dengue fever rate of over 20 per 100,000 population in the past four weeks. Furthermore, 29 provinces have reported a high presence of Aedes aegypti larvae, the mosquito responsible for transmitting the disease.
Of great concern is the fact that three provinces have reported a disease rate higher than 100 per 100,000 population. Trat has recorded 125.2 cases, Chanthaburi 109.7, and Nan 108.4. The situation is further exacerbated by an increasing mortality rate among dengue patients. Out of the 41 reported deaths in 23 provinces, 12 were children below the age of 15, and 29 were individuals above 15 years old. Risk factors identified include obesity, chronic diseases, late diagnosis, and treatment. It is alarming to note that a significant number of adults who are infected with dengue fever do not consider it as a possibility and end up taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce fever, which can potentially increase the risk of bleeding, shock, and death.
Dr. Opas has urgently called on all provinces to closely monitor and assess the dengue fever situation. He suggests establishing an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) based on specified criteria to address the ongoing crisis. Emphasizing the need to take measures in high-risk areas, it is expected that these areas will experience a rapid spread of the disease within the next four weeks. Additionally, Dr. Opas has requested the Provincial Communicable Disease Committee to consider issuing orders to relevant organizations to communicate key information to the public and educate volunteers about the urgent need to destroy mosquito breeding sites on a weekly basis.
To combat the spread of dengue fever effectively, it is crucial for the public, including village health volunteers, to play an active role in destroying mosquito larvae breeding sites. This can be achieved by implementing three disease prevention measures – ensuring proper housekeeping, proper garbage collection, and proper water storage practices to prevent mosquitoes from finding suitable places to lay eggs. Alongside these prevention measures, it is essential to spray and kill adult mosquitoes. Furthermore, individuals can take personal preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing, sleeping under mosquito nets, using mosquito coils, and applying mosquito repellent lotion to avoid mosquito bites.
It is of utmost importance that the authorities and the public work together to combat this deadly outbreak. By taking immediate action and following preventive measures, the spread of dengue fever can be significantly reduced, saving lives and preventing the further burden on healthcare systems.]
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