2023-07-28 01:00:00
Korat and Chiang Mai Provinces on High Alert as Dengue Fever Cases Surge
Friday, July 28, 2023, 6:00 a.m.
Korat and Chiang Mai provinces in Thailand are ramping up efforts to combat a widespread dengue fever epidemic. As the rainy season continues, the number of dengue fever cases has been on the rise, prompting local authorities to take immediate action.
In Korat, there have been over 400 reported cases and one death. The governor has ordered the establishment of an emergency operation center in the affected areas. Vigorous measures are being taken to eliminate mosquito larvae and prevent further breeding for 28 consecutive days. In Chiang Mai, the number of dengue fever patients has been steadily increasing each month. Authorities are readjusting their proactive plans and implementing mosquito control strategies to curb the outbreak.
Dr. Suphol Tatiyananthaphon, a public health physician in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, has revealed that the dengue fever outbreak is spreading rapidly in the area. This is in line with the nationwide trend during the rainy season. The provincial government, in collaboration with various agencies and volunteers, is actively working to eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes. If the outbreak persists, an operation or command center will be established to further prevent the breeding of mosquitoes.
In terms of patient numbers, Nakhon Ratchasima Province has recorded more than 400 cases, with a rate of approximately 17 cases per 100,000 population. The standard rate should not exceed 50 cases per hundred thousand population. Unfortunately, there has been one death, prompting the establishment of a “war room” to intensify preventive measures and reduce fatalities.
To prevent further spread of the epidemic, the governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province has instructed all districts, villages, and communities to immediately set up emergency operations command centers. These centers will focus on removing mosquito larvae and ensuring no new cases for 28 consecutive days. Elderly individuals, bedridden patients, and children are particularly susceptible to dengue fever, based on data from the over 400 patients in the province.
In Chiang Mai, Dr. Chatuchai Maneerat, a public health physician, reported that from January to July 23, there have been 2,316 dengue fever cases, resulting in a morbidity rate of 117.51 per 100,000 population. The province has recorded five deaths, with the most affected areas being Mueang Chiang Mai District, Mae Ai District, Fang District, Chiang Dao District, and Mae Rim District.
The Department of Disease Control held an online meeting with public health teams in 18 provinces, including Chiang Mai and Nakhon Ratchasima, to assess the situation. Areas with more than 8 weeks of continuous cases, surpassing the average of the past five years, are being closely monitored and may be declared dengue fever epidemic areas if the trend continues until August 31.
In Chiang Mai’s Mueang District, over 40 percent of sub-districts fulfill the criteria for an epidemic declaration. With more than 20 percent above the median number of cases in the past five years and continuous patient reports for over eight weeks, urgent actions are being taken to prevent the further spread of the disease.
Authorities are urging officials and related agencies to implement disease prevention and control measures effectively. This includes eliminating breeding grounds for mosquito larvae and exterminating adult mosquitoes carrying dengue fever. The focus is no longer limited to a 100-meter radius of the outbreak but encompasses broader areas in order to reduce the number of dengue patients as quickly as possible.
It is crucial for residents in affected areas to take necessary precautions, such as using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and keeping their surroundings clean and free of stagnant water. The collaboration of the community is vital in combating the dengue fever epidemic and ensuring the health and well-being of the population.]
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