Flu Cases Soar Over 130,000 in Just Two Months, DDC Warns

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Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has sounded the alarm over a massive wave of influenza, with more than 130,000 cases reported in just the past two months.

 

DDC Director-General Panumas Yanwetsakul disclosed that between January 1 and February 24, the nation recorded 131,826 influenza cases, including 12 tragic deaths. The outbreak primarily affects children aged five to nine, followed by infants, toddlers, and those aged 10 to 14.

 

The virus has hit the northern region hardest, with 258.44 cases per 100,000 people. The northeast recorded 175.88 cases per 100,000, and the south reported 138.85 cases. In particular, Phayao has been severely impacted, showing the highest infection rate nationwide at 635.55 cases per 100,000, trailed by Lamphun and Chiang Rai. Meanwhile, Bangkok witnessed 331.85 cases per 100,000 residents.

 

 

Alarmingly, the current infection rate is anticipated to be at least 1.6 times higher than the same timeframe last year, surpassing the five-year average morbidity rate. In 2024, there were 668,027 cases and 51 deaths, with the AH1N1 subvariant being dominant.

 

Panumas urges flu vaccinations, especially for high-risk groups such as seniors over 65, young children, individuals with obesity or chronic illnesses, and pregnant women. He suggested that those showing flu symptoms stay home for three to seven days, or until fully recovered, to curb the virus.

 

The DDC also strongly advises the public to wash hands frequently and wear masks in crowded spaces. Immediate medical help is recommended if symptoms persist, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-02-26