PHUKET: An expat resident of Phuket has become the first victim of mosquito-borne dengue fever so far this year, Phuket Public Health officials report.
The man, a Norwegian who spent half his time there and half on Phuket with his Thai family, died in April.
Deaths on Phuket from dengue are rare but the Director of the Phuket Provincial Health Office, Dr Sak Tenchaikul, is warning of an increasing number of cases so far this year.
The total number of dengue cases on Phuket already tallies 153, well up on 2011. Cases usually peak on Phuket around June each year.
Dr Sak said that dengue appeared to be more prevalent this year not just on Phuket but also in neighboring provinces, especially Ranong and Phang Nga, and across the border in Malaysia.
He said people needed to avoid allowing allowing small pools of water to collect, which was where mosquitoes bred. Fish should be added to ponds.
Local authorities usually spray regularly against mosquitoes.
The dangers increase for people who have had dengue once. There were more cases of dengue on Phuket in June 2010 (155 victims) than for the entire first six months of 2011.
Experts advise Phuket doctors to treat most cases of fever as though they are cases of dengue. The chances of death increase when people ignore the warning signs - fever and pain - and delay visiting a doctor.
People who buy pain-killers and try to treat themselves increase the dangers of becoming more at risk.
The man, a Norwegian who spent half his time there and half on Phuket with his Thai family, died in April.
Deaths on Phuket from dengue are rare but the Director of the Phuket Provincial Health Office, Dr Sak Tenchaikul, is warning of an increasing number of cases so far this year.
The total number of dengue cases on Phuket already tallies 153, well up on 2011. Cases usually peak on Phuket around June each year.
Dr Sak said that dengue appeared to be more prevalent this year not just on Phuket but also in neighboring provinces, especially Ranong and Phang Nga, and across the border in Malaysia.
He said people needed to avoid allowing allowing small pools of water to collect, which was where mosquitoes bred. Fish should be added to ponds.
Local authorities usually spray regularly against mosquitoes.
The dangers increase for people who have had dengue once. There were more cases of dengue on Phuket in June 2010 (155 victims) than for the entire first six months of 2011.
Experts advise Phuket doctors to treat most cases of fever as though they are cases of dengue. The chances of death increase when people ignore the warning signs - fever and pain - and delay visiting a doctor.
People who buy pain-killers and try to treat themselves increase the dangers of becoming more at risk.
Where in Phuket did this guy live?
Posted by stu on May 25, 2012 07:55
Editor Comment:
Public Health hasn't provided details. What usually happens is that areas where there are a number of cases are given quick treatment.