2023-11-22 10:47:06
Department of Disease Control Warns of Winter Health Threats
The Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, has issued an announcement warning the public to keep warm and stay healthy to prevent illness during the upcoming winter months. Dr. Thongchai Keeratihatthayakorn, Acting Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, expressed concern about the health of the people as Thailand enters winter, especially in the northern and northeastern regions where exceptionally cold weather is expected.
The department has identified four common communicable diseases and two important health threats that pose a risk to the public during the winter season. These include respiratory system infectious diseases such as influenza and pneumonia, gastrointestinal and water-borne diseases like viral diarrhea, other important communicable diseases like measles, and health hazards related to cold weather and inhaling toxic gases from gas water heaters.
In particular, the department provided information about the symptoms and prevention methods for each of these threats. For instance, influenza often presents with acute high fever, coughing, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue, while viral diarrhea can cause watery diarrhea and potential complications leading to shock or loss of consciousness. Furthermore, the public is urged to take preventive measures such as getting the COVID-19 vaccine, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of illness and death.
Additionally, the department issued a warning about the potential dangers of inhaling toxic gases from gas water heaters, which can lead to sudden death. They advised people to ensure proper ventilation when using gas water heaters and to quickly shower to minimize the risk of exposure to these gases.
As winter is a popular time for travel and outdoor activities, the department also urged cooperation from tourism agencies in providing guidance and precautions to tourists, especially those with underlying health conditions. Motorists were also reminded to refrain from alcohol or intoxicant consumption for the safety of themselves and others on the road.
For more information and assistance, the public can contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422.
The information provided in this article was sourced from the Epidemiology Division/Risk Communication Office, Department of Disease Control on November 21, 2023.]
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