Health authorities have launched a massive vaccination campaign after five people died in a recent measles outbreak in Thailand’s southernmost provinces. Three of the victims were children under the age of 15. The deaths occurred in Yala, Narathiwat and Pattani provinces last month, raising serious concerns for the Department of Disease Control (DDDC).
Between January and September, 4.408 suspected cases of measles were reported, of which 2.371 were confirmed by laboratory tests. Of those infected, 371 patients developed pneumonia as a complication, underlining the severity of the outbreak. The low vaccination coverage in the southern regions plays a major role in the scale of the outbreak. Only 40-50% of the population in these areas is vaccinated, far below the national average of 80-90%.
The current vaccination campaign is mainly focused on preschool and primary school children. Authorities hope to complete the vaccinations before the start of the school holidays next month. This effort is crucial to limit the spread of the disease, especially since measles usually peaks between July and September.
Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, usually causes symptoms such as fever, runny nose, cough and sore eyes. The virus can spread quickly, especially among unvaccinated children, and cause serious complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis.
The government is doing everything it can to contain the measles outbreak and is calling on the population to vaccinate their children to prevent further spread and deaths. The success of the campaign is vital, especially in the vulnerable southern provinces where low vaccination rates and health challenges are compounded.
About this blogger
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Known as Khun Peter (62), lives alternately in Apeldoorn and Pattaya. In a relationship with Kanchana for 14 years. Not yet retired, have my own company, something with insurance. Crazy about animals, especially dogs and music.
Enough hobbies, but unfortunately little time: writing for Thailandblog, fitness, health and nutrition, shooting sports, chatting with friends and some other oddities.
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