Thailand medical authorities warn of rising cases of Leptospirosis in Southern provinces
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Aug 07, 2024 3 months, 2 weeks, 11 hours, 57 minutes ago
Thailand Medical: As the rainy season intensifies, the Department of Disease Control, Region 12, Songkhla, has issued a stark warning to the public in Southern Thailand. The authorities are urging vigilance against leptospirosis, commonly known as rat fever, particularly in flood-prone areas where the disease is most likely to spread.
Thailand medical authorities warn of rising cases of Leptospirosis in Southern provinces
Urgent Health Advisory
If you experience a fever and calf pain after wading through water, it is crucial not to self-medicate. Instead, seek immediate medical attention. The Office of Disease Prevention and Control, Region 12, Songkhla (ODPC 12 Songkhla), emphasizes that during the rainy season, and especially after floodwaters recede, the risk of contracting leptospirosis increases significantly.
Leptospirosis Outbreak Statistics
Dr Chalermphon Osothphromma, Director of the ODPC 12 Songkhla, has provided alarming statistics on leptospirosis from January 1 to August 5, 2024. Thailand has reported 1,999 cases of leptospirosis, resulting in 24 deaths. In Health Region 12 alone, there have been 482 cases and 8 deaths: Songkhla (5), Phatthalung (2), and Trang (1). Songkhla tops the list with the highest number of cases (139), followed by Trang (77), Narathiwat (68), Yala (65), Phatthalung (57), Satun (53), and Pattani (23). The most affected age groups are individuals aged 50-59 years, followed by those aged 40-49 years, 30-39 years, and those over 60.
Understanding Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis, or rat fever, is caused by the bacterium Leptospira. The infection occurs when the bacterium enters the body through wounds, scratches, abrasions, or mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth. It can also penetrate the skin after prolonged immersion in water. The disease is most prevalent during the rainy season, particularly after floodwaters recede. High-risk groups include farmers who work in water or damp soil contaminated with animal urine from cattle, buffalo, pigs, dogs, goats, and rats. Workers in animal farms, slaughterhouses, and those handling infected animals are also at high risk.
Additionally, leptospirosis can be contracted by consuming contaminated food or water.
Symptoms and Immediate Actions
Thailand Medical experts stress the importance of recognizing the symptoms of leptospirosis early. Key symptoms include a high fever 1-2 weeks after water exposure, severe headaches, calf and thigh muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and red eyes. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor about any recent water immersion or wading activities. Many fatalities occur due to self-medication or delayed medical consultation.
Prevention Measures
To prevent leptospirosis, avoid wading in floodwater, mud, or wet areas barefoot, as rats, pigs, cattle, and buffalo may have urinated there, creating a high concentration of bac
teria. Always wear boots, gloves, or protective clothing. Farmers who come into contact with animal waste or dirt should wash their hands, feet, and body immediately after work. Additionally, maintain cleanliness around homes, dispose of garbage to prevent rats, and store food and drinking water properly to avoid contamination. Boil water before drinking and eat freshly cooked food. If you handle or touch meat, carcasses, or any animals, wash your hands with soap immediately.
Regional Health Efforts
Songkhla Provincial Public Health Office 12 is actively warning residents in the lower southern region about the risks of leptospirosis. Authorities recommend avoiding walking through water, stepping on mud, or soaking in water with bare feet for prolonged periods. It is advised to wear boots at all times to minimize risk. Dr Chalermphon has emphasized that many of the patients who died either self-medicated or sought medical help too late, underscoring the importance of timely medical intervention.
Community Education and Support
In an effort to curb the spread of leptospirosis, the Department of Disease Control has launched a public awareness campaign. Educational materials are being distributed, and local health workers are conducting workshops on disease prevention. The community is being encouraged to report any symptoms immediately and to practice good hygiene and preventive measures.
For more information and assistance, the public can contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422. The hotline provides guidance on symptoms, prevention, and steps to take if leptospirosis is suspected.
Conclusion
As leptospirosis cases rise in southern Thailand, the medical authorities are urging the public to be vigilant and proactive in preventing the disease. By following recommended safety measures and seeking prompt medical attention, the community can help reduce the spread and impact of leptospirosis. Stay informed, stay protected, and support health initiatives to ensure a safer rainy season for everyone.
For the latest updates on health and disease prevention, check
Thailand Medical News.
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/thailand-medical-authorities-warn-of-rising-rsv-infections-during-the-current-rainy-season
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