Dengue Fever in Thailand
14 Dec 2015
The media has reported on the dengue fever situation in Thailand. It has been reported that 2015, has been the worst year for dengue fever in the last 20 years. An estimated 123 168 cases have been reported as of end November 2015, with an estimated 116 fatalities. The cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the worst affected areas of Thailand.
Weather conditions are thought to have affected the increase in dengue cases; the wet season has been prolonged and the temperature remains higher than expected for the time of year, particularly along the Myanmar border with Thailand.
The Public Health Ministry has continued its nationwide fumigation operations in an attempt to eradicate Aedes mosquito’s breeding grounds and control the outbreak.
Advice for Travellers
Avoidance of mosquito bites, particularly during daylight hours, is recommended. Bite avoidance measures include: covering up with clothing, the use of insect repellent and bed nets impregnated with insecticide. Reduction of mosquito breeding sites around hotel rooms/homes is advised for longer term stays.