Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, MD. Director-General of the Department of Disease Control Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) said that during this period, many areas throughout the country changed hot and cold. Therefore, people should take care of their health and family. especially homes with small children Should be especially careful with respiratory diseases such as influenza.
For the influenza situation from 1 Jan.-14 Feb. 65, 565 cases were found, no deaths. It was found most among young children aged 1 year, followed by 15-24 and 25-34 years of age. The top five provinces with the highest morbidity rate per 100,000 population were Chiang Rai, Narathiwat, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai and Sisaket, respectively.
Influenza is caused by a virus (Influenza virus) by seasonal influenza. It can be classified into 3 types (type) which are A, B and C. It can be transmitted by touching the patient’s secretions, mucus, saliva or phlegm. It is spread through coughing, sneezing, or getting infected by touching contaminated appliances such as glass, doorknobs, telephones, and hand towels.
As for the symptoms following being infected, there will be high fever, cough, headache, muscle aches, weakness, nasopharyngitis and sore throat. In children, gastrointestinal symptoms may also be present, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some of them can disappear on their own. In 5-7 days, or if symptoms do not improve within 48 hours, seek immediate medical attention.
Dr. Opas added that Ask people to take care of their health and their family members. By universal self-defense (Universal Prevention: UP) and adhere to the principle of “close, wash, avoid, stop”, including:
1. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing by using a cloth or tissue every time. and should wear a mask
2. Wash your hands with soap and water regularly. or use alcohol gel alcohol spray Rub your hands all over before eating. and following going to the bathroom, toilet or picking up things
3. Avoid close contact with the patient. or in crowded places keep distance from others
4. When sick, should stop studying, stop working, stop doing activities, even if the patient has few symptoms. You should take a break and stay at home until healed.
This practice will reduce the risk of all strains of influenza. other respiratory diseases including COVID-19