Dengue fever cases surge in January 2023
According to the latest data from the Department of Disease Control of Thailand, in January 2023 in the country recorded a sharp surge in cases of dengue fever. In one month, more than 8,000 infected people were identified and 13 people died from complications. This is a 91.25% increase compared to the same period last year.
Such a rapid increase in the number of patients indicates the unfolding of a large-scale epidemic of dengue. This dangerous mosquito-borne viral infection is well established in Thailand's tropical climate. The main vectors are the insects Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Due to the heat and abundance of standing water, they actively breed almost all year round.
The situation is especially difficult in the southern and central regions of the country. It is here that the overwhelming majority of cases of the disease have been registered. In addition, fatalities have occurred in 11 different provinces.
Children aged 5-14 are the most vulnerable. They have not yet developed sufficient immunity to resist the dangerous infection.
Characteristic symptoms of dengue fever are a sharp rise in temperature, severe headaches, pain in muscles and joints, as well as nausea and vomiting. Without timely treatment, the disease can lead to severe complications and even death.
Urgent measures to control the spread of infection
Given the scale of the epidemic, Thai authorities are calling for immediate action to control the spread of the infection. Head of the Department of Disease Control Thongchai Kiratihuttayakorn recommends the population to protect themselves as much as possible from mosquito bites. This involves using repellents, wearing closed clothing and installing protective nets in homes.
In addition, regular destruction of mosquito breeding sites is key. Any accumulations of standing water where larvae can breed should be thoroughly drained. Only a set of such measures will stop the rapid spread of dengue fever in Thailand.
At the slightest suspicious symptoms after insect bites, you should immediately consult a doctor. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for a safe recovery. Only through the joint efforts of the authorities and the population can this dangerous epidemic be brought under control.
Author of the article: Ekaterina Antonova
