2023-07-09 05:00:00
Rainy Season Warning: ‘Dengue Fever’ Epidemic Sweeps Across the Country
Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, has revealed the alarming situation of the ongoing “dengue fever” epidemic in the country. The number of patients has increased significantly in 2023, with a total of 27,377 cumulative cases in the first 25 weeks. The morbidity rate stands at 41.37 per hundred thousand population, resulting in 23 deaths, accounting for a morbidity rate of 0.08%. This is a staggering three times higher than the same period last year, which recorded 9,736 patients, a sickness rate of 17.46 per hundred thousand population, and 7 deaths with a 0.09% death rate. It is evident that the number of cases is surpassing the median of the past five years, with both children and adults losing their lives to this deadly fever.
The areas with the highest morbidity rates are Bangkok, Trat, Nan, Chanthaburi, Rayong, and Mae Hong Son. Among the age groups affected, students between the ages of 5-14 have been hit the hardest, followed by the age group of 15-24.
Dr. Opas emphasizes that the best way to prevent dengue fever is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes and to eliminate mosquito larva breeding sites in residential houses, communities, temples, and religious places, where the Aedes larvae index has been found to be high. He also urges Local Administration to allocate resources to support these preventive measures. It is crucial to keep homes clear of potential mosquito shelters, collect garbage and scraps of containers, and cover water containers or change the water every 7 days. Fish can be introduced to eat the mosquito larvae, and sand can be added to kill them. These steps will help prevent not only dengue fever but also other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, such as Zika fever. Additionally, it is recommended to wear cover-up clothing, sleep under mosquito nets, use mosquito coils, and apply mosquito repellent to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Furthermore, it is important to note that being infected with dengue hemorrhagic fever once does not guarantee immunity from severe symptoms upon a subsequent infection. There are four strains of dengue virus that cause dengue fever, and each year the outbreak strains may differ. The severity of symptoms may increase with each subsequent infection, especially if it is caused by a different strain of the virus.
In response to the epidemic, Chiang Mai Governor, Nirat Pongsitthaworn, has instructed the Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Office and other health agencies in the area to inform the public about the epidemic and suggest ways to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. These include using mosquito repellents or lotions, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants before leaving the house, destroying potential water sources for mosquitoes, and using sand to eliminate mosquito larvae. The governor also emphasizes the importance of the dengue vaccination. Currently, there are two types of dengue vaccines that have been registered in Thailand.
It is crucial for the public to understand that dengue fever does not have a cure. The dengue virus has four serotypes: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. Female mosquitoes serve as carriers of the virus, infecting humans when they bite individuals with the virus in their bloodstream. The virus then enters the bitten person’s bloodstream, causing a widespread epidemic of dengue fever. Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms to restore the patient’s body to normal as soon as possible. In cases where the symptoms are not severe, dengue fever can be cured within 2-7 days. Patients are advised to drink fluids to prevent dehydration, periodically wipe themselves with warm water to reduce fever, and may take antipyretics such as paracetamol if prescribed by a doctor. It is important to seek medical treatment if symptoms worsen, such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, unusually cold sensations, or lack of urination for more than 6 hours.
In other news, Pol.Lt.Gen. Piya Tawichai, the Commander of Police Region 5, has delivered 21 4-wheel drive pickup trucks and 6 vans sponsored by the Royal Thai Police to various agencies under the Provincial Police Region 5. These vehicles will greatly assist in maintaining peace and order in challenging terrains, especially in high mountainous areas like Mae Hong Son.
The Provincial Police Region 5 has also organized an Investigation Workshop on Human Trafficking in Pornography Production and Dissemination. This workshop aims to educate police officers on the investigation and prosecution of cases involving pornographic possession and human trafficking related to the production and distribution of pornography. The goal is to enhance law enforcement efforts in combating these illicit activities.
At Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport, an award ceremony was held to honor valuable personnel of Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited. Outstanding employees who have demonstrated honesty, exceptional work, and contributions to AOT were recognized during the event, which marks AOT’s 44th anniversary.
Meanwhile, Capt. Sarawut Thueanboon, Boat Commander responsible for maintaining peace along the Mekong River in Chiang Rai District, has led a team to conduct activities to meet and provide consumer goods, medicines, and general home pharmaceuticals to people in need in Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai Province. These initiatives aim to alleviate the suffering of the local community.
In the field of education, the Teacher Development Institute organized a study visit program for faculty members and educational personnel as part of the senior management development program. The purpose of this visit was to exchange knowledge and learn from the management experiences of government executives. The visit was hosted by Dr. Kampol Chainan, Director of Ratchaprachanukhro School 15 in Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai Province.
Furthermore, the University of Phayao’s Student Affairs Division held the UP PRIDE & PROUD 2023 project, which focused on promoting multicultural aesthetics and advocating for the rights of LGBT individuals. This initiative aimed to develop student aesthetic identities and contribute to the sustainable development goals.
Elsewhere, the Internal Security Operations Command of Lamphun Province organized a speech contest on the topic of “Youth Love the Institution.” Students from nine schools participated in the contest, with Danuporn Kaewyot from Wiang Chedi Wittaya School winning the first prize.
In another effort to combat drug abuse, Jaroon Khampanna, Mayor of Sri Bua Ban Subdistrict in Lamphun Province, opened a training program to educate people on drug prevention and problem-solving. This program aimed to enhance knowledge and understanding of drug-related issues and to promote joint efforts in controlling the drug problem and reducing its impact on the community.
On the commercial front, Kanokrat Yuktirat, Deputy Director of Lamphun Provincial Commercial Office, participated in public relations activities to promote and distribute agricultural products from local farmers in Lamphun Province. This initiative aimed to showcase and sell the farmers’ products to the public and support the local economy.
Lastly, Chatchawan Chayabutr, Governor of Lampang Province, presided over the opening ceremony of a project aimed at promoting tourism and cultural preservation in the province. This project aims to boost the local economy and create opportunities for economic growth and development.]
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