NATIONWIDE cases of dengue fever from the beginning of the year to Sep. 11 have climbed over 43,000 with 36 patients having died and it is children and adolescents who are at most risk of getting infected, Amarin TV said today (Sep. 22).
Dr. Thaweechai Visanuyothin, director of the Disease Control Office 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima, warned the public to not be complacent as dengue fever cases always rise during heavy rain as stagnant water left behind is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
A total of 43,587 cases of dengue fever during this period represents a morbidity rate of 65.97 per 100,000 population. Risk factors for death include underlying medical conditions, reaching the hospital late to get Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), along with alcoholism and being overweight.
Within Health Region 9 there were 4,284 cases so far this year, a morbidity rate of 64.92 per 100,000 population and five deaths.
Separately Nakhon Ratchasima province had 1,463 cases, representing a morbidity rate of 56.05 per 100,000 population, with two deaths. Chaiyaphum province had 328 cases, representing a morbidity rate of 30.66 per 100,000 population, with no deaths. Buriram province had 1,011 cases, representing a morbidity rate of 64.73 per 100,000 population, with one death. Surin Province had 1,482 cases, representing a morbidity rate of 109.19 per 100,000 population, and two deaths.
The most affected age group is 10 to 14 years old, followed by 5 to 9 and 15 to 24 years old, respectively.
Dengue fever symptoms include a sudden high fever of over 39-40 degrees Celsius for 2-7 days, accompanied by headache, body aches, a flushed face and the appearance of small red spots on the torso, arms, and legs. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite may also occur. Most people do not cough or have a runny nose, and the fever subsides. During this period, extra caution is required, as shock and death can occur. Therefore, the public is urged to protect themselves and avoid mosquito bites.
CAPTIONS:
Above: Aides mosquitoes.
First insert: Dr. Thaweechai Visanuyothin.
Second insert: Sanitation workers spraying insecticide. All photos – Amarin TV
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