Thailand Faces Rapid Increase in Influenza Cases Nationwide as Infections Reach 99,057 Along with 9 Deaths
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Feb 18, 2025 2 days, 8 hours, 40 minutes ago
Thailand Influenza News: Thailand is currently experiencing a significant rise in influenza cases, with the Public Health Ministry issuing warnings about the rapid spread of the virus. The northeastern region, particularly the provinces of Nakhon Ratchasima, Surin, Buri Ram, and Chaiyaphum, has been hit the hardest. Health officials are now urging people who exhibit flu-like symptoms to stay at home to prevent further transmission.
Thailand Faces Rapid Increase in Influenza Cases Nationwide as Infections Reach 99,057 Along with 9 Deaths.
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin reported a sharp increase in infections this February. The Ministry of Public Health has also been expediting the distribution of flu vaccines, prioritizing vulnerable groups such as young children and the elderly. As of January 25, the total number of influenza cases stood at 7,819. However, just weeks later, by February 15, the number had surged to 99,057, with nine reported fatalities. According to the ministry, the predominant strain currently circulating in Thailand is H1N1.
Most infections have been found in schools, with children aged five to nine years being the most affected. This
Thailand Influenza News report also highlights the situation in Chaiyaphum province, where over 1,000 cases have been recorded. Among these, more than 500 infections were reported within the provincial male prison in Muang district. Dr. Suppapong Chaimongkol, head of preventive medicine at Chaiyaphum Public Health Office, has urged the public to wear facemasks and receive flu vaccinations to curb the spread.
The Threat of Influenza A
Influenza A is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through airborne droplets from coughs and sneezes. Individuals can contract the virus from as far as two meters away. Symptoms include fever, chills, body aches, coughing, nasal congestion, sore throat, and fatigue.
Dr. Amporn Benjapolpitak, Director-General of the Department of Health, emphasized preventive measures such as wearing facemasks, frequent handwashing, and avoiding crowded areas to reduce exposure. The annual flu vaccine is also being promoted, particularly for high-risk groups, including:
-Children aged six months to two years
-Pregnant women
-Seniors aged 65 and above
-People with chronic health conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes
-Individuals with obesity
https://pr.moph.go.th//online/index/news/313354
People experiencing flu symptoms are advised to stay home for three to seven days or until fully recovered. In severe cases, including difficulty breathing or extreme fatigue, individuals should seek immediate medical attention.
Health Ministry Responds to the Surge
The surge in flu cases has prompted an aggressive response from Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health. Somsak Thepsutin revealed that this year’s influenza numbers are surpassing last year’s trends
. From January 1 to February 3, 2024, Thailand recorded 47,000 cases, whereas this year’s total has already neared 100,000 in the same period.
The Department of Disease Control has emphasized the importance of preventative measures, especially for travelers. Local doctors are advising that individuals traveling to the northern hemisphere should receive a flu shot at least two weeks before departure. They reassured the public that Thailand is not experiencing the same aggressive strain currently affecting Japan, where a well-known Taiwanese actress, Barbie "Big S" Hsu, tragically succumbed to influenza earlier this month.
Government Expands Vaccination Campaign
To combat the crisis, the National Health Security Office (NHSO) has launched a major vaccination campaign, set to begin in May, ahead of Thailand’s flu season peak. A total of 4.5 million flu vaccine doses have been secured for distribution across the country.
Priority vaccination groups include:
-Healthcare workers
-Children under five years old
-Elderly individuals
-People with chronic diseases
-Pregnant women (recommended after four months of pregnancy)
Public health officials stress the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices and being proactive in preventing infections. The Ministry of Public Health is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to take further action if necessary.
Conclusion
Thailand is currently witnessing an alarming increase in influenza cases, with numbers rising dramatically within just a few weeks. While children and the elderly remain the most vulnerable, the virus is spreading rapidly in schools, prisons, and other crowded areas. The government has responded by accelerating vaccination efforts, emphasizing personal hygiene measures, and urging symptomatic individuals to stay at home.
The Ministry of Public Health continues to monitor the situation, ensuring the public has access to essential health services and vaccinations. With cases on the rise, the government’s proactive response and the cooperation of the public are crucial in containing the outbreak and reducing the risk of fatalities.
For the latest
Thailand Influenza News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
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