2023-09-28 06:57:00
Severe Influenza Epidemic Hits Thailand, Oseltamivir in Short Supply
Thailand is currently experiencing a severe influenza epidemic, with the number of cases rising at an alarming rate. According to the Department of Disease Control under the Ministry of Public Health, there have been 154,829 reported cases of influenza from January 1st to September 9th, 2023. The rate of illness has reached 233.95 per 100,000 people, indicating the gravity of the situation. Tragically, three deaths have also been recorded.
Concerns regarding the availability of medication for treating this influenza outbreak have risen, as many hospitals are already running out of oseltamivir, an antiviral drug commonly used to treat influenza. The Medical Worker Union’s Facebook fan page recently posted, “Does your hospital still have oseltamivir left? (Many hospitals are already empty)”.
Meanwhile, dengue fever cases are gradually declining, although the morbidity and death rates remain high. The Medical Federation’s Central hospital/general hospital Facebook page also shared updates on the situation. They stated, “Influenza pandemic, oseltamivir is out of stock in many hospitals, waiting to revive DMHT measures, hoping to start the school term with fewer patients”.
In response to the shortage of oseltamivir, the Pharmacy Council suggested using ‘Favi’ as a substitute. Oseltamivir is classified as a ‘specially controlled drug’ and is known for inhibiting the activity of the influenza virus. It is an oral medication that is absorbed effectively in the digestive tract. Currently, two brands of oseltamivir are available in Thailand – Tamiflu from Roche Company priced at approximately 120 baht per tablet, and GPO A-Flu from the Government Pharmaceutical Organization (GPO) priced at 25 baht per tablet. However, due to the high number of people infected with influenza, these medications are in short supply in many hospitals across the country.
Patients in need of treatment must take oseltamivir for five consecutive days, consuming two tablets per day for a total of ten tablets. However, it is crucial to emphasize that the medication should be taken under a doctor’s supervision, as self-administration can have adverse side effects such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, headache, insomnia, and diarrhea.
Facing this dire situation, concerned Facebook users have shared their opinions widely, expressing their frustration and fears over the scarcity of oseltamivir.
The Thai Health Promotion Foundation has provided additional information, aiding in the understanding of the severity of the situation. Additionally, a picture from Shutterstock has been included to further illustrate the topic at hand.
As the influenza epidemic continues to plague Thailand, authorities and medical professionals are working diligently to address the shortage of oseltamivir and ensure the necessary measures are taken to control the outbreak effectively.]
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