Warning: The spread of COVID and Flu during rainy season

     During the rainy season, where the weather conditions vary, health concerns undoubtedly arise. The Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, warns the public to be aware of influenza during this season and recommends high-risk groups to get the annual influenza vaccine. These groups include pregnant women from 4 months gestation onwards, all children aged 6 months to 2 years, people with chronic diseases, those aged 65 and over, individuals with thalassemia, those with immune deficiencies, people with obesity, and people with disabilities who cannot take care of themselves. These groups are at high risk of severe illness and death from influenza, and they also face a high risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Hence, boosting immunity against both diseases is another important measure that helps protect these vulnerable groups and those around them. Therefore, they should consider getting the influenza vaccine alongside the COVID-19 vaccine to help prevent severe illness and death from both diseases, by getting the injections on different arms.

     Given that many areas are experiencing erratic weather and storms, and the Meteorological Department has announced that Thailand has entered the rainy season since May 22, 2023, the Department of Disease Control advises the public to protect themselves from influenza. Prevention methods include frequent hand washing, avoiding crowded places, or wearing a face mask at all times when needed. Furthermore, as schools are about to start their academic year, there is a potential risk of disease spread among student groups and young children without proper precautionary measures. For those in the high-risk group showing symptoms similar to influenza such as high fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat, headache, fatigue, body aches, they are advised to promptly see a doctor for early treatment.

     High-risk individuals can get the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines at nearby health facilities. For more information, contact the Disease Control Department hotline at 1422.

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