OFFICIALS in Sa Kaeo province on the border with Cambodia are accelerating the eradication of Aedes mosquito breeding grounds after 248 people came down with dengue fever in the first half of this year with three fatalities, PostToday reported this afternoon (July 2, 2020).
Dr Suphachok Vejphanphaesak, Sa Kaeo public health doctor, said two patients died in Aranyaprathet district and one in Mueang Sa Kaeo from the beginning of the year till June 29.
The three districts with the highest infection rates are Wang Sombun, Khao Chakan and Mueang Sa Kaeo. Infections are highest in the 10-14 age group followed by 5 to 9 and then 15 to 24.
When compared to the other provinces in health zone 6, comprising eight eastern provinces, Sa Kaeo has the fourth highest infection rate while placing 15th nationwide.
As dengue fever, a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus, is primarily spread by the Aedes mosquito Dr Suphachok urged joint effort to eliminate breeding grounds around the house and in the community.
People are urged to protect themselves from being bitten and exercise regularly to stay strong.
“During this period, if the patient has fever for more than two days and the symptoms do not improve, I must recommend going to the hospital.
“Do not get an injection nor take pain killers and medicine to reduce fever as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin because they will aggravate the disease.
“If a patient is found in the house the other members must immediately report his illness to the Tambon Health Promotion Hospital. They will go to the house within three hours to eradicate the Aedes mosquito breeding sites within one day. They will also continuously monitor this house for 28 days to effectively control this disease,” he added.
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Top: Officials fumigating a house hit by Aedes mosquitoes. Photo: PostToday
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