Thailand is currently grappling with a significant rise in dengue fever cases this year, with government officials reporting over 19,000 infections, the highest number in three years.
Since January, the dengue virus has claimed the lives of at least 15 individuals across the country, and the infection rate is 4.2 times higher compared to last year, according to deputy government spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul on Monday.
On a weekly basis, an average of around 900 infections and one death have been recorded, with the majority of dengue cases concentrated in the capital city of Bangkok and five other provinces, Traisuree added.
The public health ministry anticipates a further increase in dengue patients during the rainy season, which typically spans from June to August, before the number of cases begins to decline in September.
As of last week, Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) reported a total of 19,503 dengue cases in the country, with a significant proportion of infections occurring among children aged between 5 and 14.
DDC director-general Thares Krasanairawiwong advised anyone suspecting dengue infection to seek medical attention and refrain from self-administering over-the-counter treatments.
To combat the spread of this mosquito-borne disease, the agency emphasizes the importance of maintaining cleanliness in communities and assisting in the elimination of mosquito breeding sites.
