Flood Disease Hits 7,000 Thais

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NAN UNDER WATER

Flood disease hits 7,000 Thais

By Pongphon Sarnsamak

The Nation

More than 7,000 people are suffering from flood-related diseases in Nan province, two days after the remnants of Typhoon Haima hit parts of Thailand.

Most are suffering from athlete's foot, insect stings and injuries from flood-related accidents.

One person died in the floods, Public Health Ministry permanent secretary Dr Paijit Warachit said.

The ministry has sent 18 medical teams and 5,000 medicine sets to help flood-affected people, he said.

"We need to find patients who are suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and epilepsy to help them access lifesaving drugs immediately," Paijit said.

Even though the level of flood water has receded, eight hospitals in Nan province remain unable to operate.

However, Nan public health office chief Dr Sinoros Leesawas said other hospitals in the province remained open to provide medical services to patients.

"All medical workers have been instructed to work around the clock to help affected people, especially those living in flood-risk areas," he added.

Five rescue boats have been deployed to transport mobile medical teams to help flood victims, as main roads have been blocked by massive amounts of water.

-- The Nation 2011-06-30