Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong: The Permament Secretary of Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health Sheds Light on Ongoing Dengue Fever Crisis
In the past four weeks, there has been an alarming increase in cases of dengue fever across Thailand. In 29 provinces spanning all regions, the number of people affected by this disease has surpassed 20 per 100,000 population. These cases have raised concerns as they involve both intracommunity transmission (CI) as well as transmission by Aedes mosquitoes (HI).
One particular province, Trat-Chanthaburi-Nan, stands out with a disease rate exceeding 100 per 100,000 population. Additionally, the number of fatalities reached 41, distributed among 23 provinces. Disturbingly, 12 of these deaths involved children under the age of 15, while 29 were adults above 15 years of age. This higher mortality rate in adults highlights a dangerous trend: many adults tend to underestimate the severity of dengue fever when first experiencing symptoms. Consequently, they often treat their symptoms with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce their fever, which can lead to increased bleeding and ultimately, the risk of shock and death.
Thus, it is crucial for adults, especially, to be vigilant during this period. If a fever is detected, it is important not to self-medicate with NSAIDs alone, as these drugs can exacerbate the situation. This precautionary measure is particularly relevant for parents or caregivers of children, as dengue fever tends to affect them more severely.
In light of this distressing situation, it is imperative that public health authorities and individuals alike take immediate action to control the spread of dengue fever. By adopting comprehensive prevention measures such as eliminating breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes and raising awareness about the disease, we can effectively combat this outbreak and protect the health and well-being of our communities.
Key Findings:
- 29 provinces in Thailand have reported a dengue fever incidence rate exceeding 20 per 100,000 population.
- Trat-Chanthaburi-Nan province stands out with an alarming disease rate surpassing 100 per 100,000 population.
- 41 fatalities have been recorded across 23 provinces, with 12 of these deaths involving children under the age of 15.
- Adults tend to underestimate the severity of dengue fever, leading to a higher mortality rate in this group.
- Avoid self-medicating with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for fever reduction, as this can increase the risk of bleeding and shock.
Prevention Measures:
- Eliminate breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes to curb transmission.
- Enhance public awareness about dengue fever to promote early diagnosis and proper treatment.
- Urgently address the risk factors associated with dengue fever, particularly in adults.
- Collaborate with public health authorities and communities to implement targeted interventions.
Dr Opas Karnkawinpong The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health spoke about the situationDengue feverin Thailand in the last 4 weeks Found a province with an illness rate of “Dengue fever“There are above 20 per 100,000 of the population in 29 states spread across all regions. Including having a comma indexAedes mosquitoInternally (HI) and in the community (CI) high
“Trat-Chanthaburi-Nan, 3 provinces where the sickness rate is higher than 100 per 100,000 of the population. As for the deaths, 41 were found in 23 states, 12 of which were children younger than 15 years and 29 adults older than 15 years, more adults than slow children. Especially the group of adults who usually don’t think about it when they first get sick.Dengue fever, and receive NSAIDs to reduce fever It occurs mainly in children, so during this period if there is a fever Do not buy NS drugs to eat alone. because it will bleed easily until there is danger of shock and death
#states #illness #rate #Dengue #fever #high #deaths #adults #children
