Thailand’s Public Health Watchful as Dengue Fever Claims 82 Lives

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CHIANG RAI – Thailand’s Public Health Ministry has been keeping a close watch on dengue hemorrhagic fever which has, so far, this year claimed 82 lives out of a total of over 80,000 patients inflicted by the disease.

Dr Sophon Mekthon, public health permanent secretary said Monday that the high incidence of dengue hemorrhagic

fever caused by striped mosquito bites has made it necessary to take precautions to prevent people from being inflicted, particularly the 15-24-year old age group which accounts for 28 percent of the patients this year.

According to the Office of Epidemiology, 45 percent of the 15-24-year old age group exposed to dengue fever were students. The top five provinces with the highest incidence of the fever are Rayong, Petchaburi, Ratchaburi, Trat and Uthai Thani.

The high-risk groups who are required to take special precautions are those who are overweight or who suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure or asthma, said Dr Sophon. He explained that if these people were inflicted with dengue fever, it would be more difficult to treat.

He suggested those suffering from high fever, headache, depression and vomiting not to take medication but to see doctors immediately for proper diagnosis.