"Stay Informed, Monitor Emerging Diseases and Health Threats from Flooding"

Dr. Jurai Wongsawat, Senior Medical Specialist and Assistant Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, and Dr. Veerawat Manosutthi, Senior Medical Specialist and Spokesperson for the Department of Disease Control, held a press conference titled "Stay Informed, Monitor Emerging Diseases and Health Threats from Flooding," providing guidelines on handling diseases and health risks during this period.

Dr. Veerawat Manosutthi and Dr. Jurai Wongsawat

COVID-19: The trend of COVID-19 patients has decreased, with the dominant strain being JN.1. From January 7 to September 7, 2024, there were 38,236 hospitalized cases and 201 deaths. Between September 1-7, 2024, 314 hospitalizations were reported, with 1 death involving an elderly patient with underlying health conditions.

Influenza: Cases are also declining, with the most prevalent strain being A/H1N1(2009). From January 1 to August 31, 2024, there were 468,631 reported cases, with 36 deaths, mostly among individuals aged 65 and older. Vaccination coverage for high-risk groups in 2024 reached 91%, with 3,802,584 people vaccinated out of a target of 4,170,210. The public, especially parents, the elderly, and high-risk groups, are urged to maintain respiratory hygiene and seek medical care when necessary.

Dengue Fever: From January 1 to September 4, 2024, there were 72,157 cases, with 71 deaths, mostly among the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. The focus is on eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, prompt diagnosis, and avoiding NSAIDs, which may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in suspected dengue cases.

Monkeypox: Globally, from January 1, 2022, to July 31, 2024, there were 102,997 cases, with 223 deaths, mainly among individuals aged 30-39. In Thailand, 835 cases and 13 deaths (1.6%) were reported between 2022 and September 6, 2024, with all deceased individuals also having HIV. Preventive measures include avoiding crowded places and close contact with people suspected of having monkeypox.

Leptospirosis: From January 1 to September 3, 2024, there were 2,452 reported cases, primarily among people aged 55-64. The disease is transmitted through contact with the urine of infected animals or contaminated soil and water. There were 26 deaths, mostly due to delayed medical attention. People are advised to wear protective gear, such as boots, when walking through water and mud.

Melioidosis (Soil Fever): Between January 1 and September 3, 2024, 2,399 cases and 68 deaths were reported, mostly in northeastern Thailand. This bacterial infection can be contracted through prolonged contact with soil and water, contaminated food or drink, and inhalation of dust.

Streptococcus suis Infection ("Pig Ear Disease"): This bacterial disease, transmitted through eating undercooked pork, caused 44 deaths this year, mostly among the elderly and those with chronic conditions. Prevention includes thoroughly cooking pork and avoiding direct contact with raw pork if there are cuts or sores on the hands.

Diarrhea and Food Poisoning in Schools: There were 43 outbreaks reported in educational institutions, affecting 3,244 individuals. The primary causes include poor sanitation and improperly stored or prepared food. Schools are advised to maintain proper hygiene and ensure safe food handling practices.

Flood-Related Health Hazards: Between August 16 and September 8, 2024, 29 deaths were reported due to drowning, landslides, and electrocution, with the majority of victims aged 45-59. People are advised to evacuate to higher ground during floods and avoid driving through flooded areas.