Don’t Be Complacent! Influenza Cases Rising Public Urged to Stay Alert and Get Vaccinated

The Office of Disease Prevention and Control 11 in Nakhon Si Thammarat has issued a warning about rising influenza cases during the rainy season, urging the public to strictly follow preventive measures under the principle “Cover, Wash, Avoid, Rest.” Authorities emphasize that influenza vaccination once a year is crucial, especially for high-risk groups, to prevent severe illness and fatalities.

From January 1 to October 14, 2025, the Health Region 11 reported 51,200 influenza cases, with 5 deaths. The most affected groups were children aged 5–9 years, followed by children aged 0–4 years. Influenza spreads easily through contact with respiratory secretions such as mucus, saliva, or phlegm from coughing and sneezing. Symptoms are similar to the common cold but often include more severe muscle pain, headaches, sore throat, runny nose, cough, and fatigue.

To prevent infection, the public is advised to practice the “Cover, Wash, Avoid, Rest” measures:

- Cover: Always cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Wear a mask if sick.

- Wash: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching shared objects.

- Avoid: Avoid close contact with sick individuals and crowded places.

- Rest: If sick, stay home from work, school, or social activities until fully recovered.

Health authorities stress that seven high-risk groups should receive the influenza vaccine annually:

   1.Pregnant women (at least 4 months gestation)

   2.Children aged 6 months to 2 years

   3.People with chronic diseases (COPD, asthma, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, cancer under chemotherapy, diabetes)

   4.Adults aged 65 and older

   5.People with neurological disabilities who cannot care for themselves

   6.Patients with thalassemia or immune deficiencies, including symptomatic HIV cases

   7.People with obesity (weight over 100 kg or BMI >35)

Vaccination helps reduce the severity of illness and lowers the risk of death from influenza-related complications.

 

 

Source:

Department Of Disease Control