Chiang Mai Governor Urges Units to Prevent Dengue Fever and Chikungunya Disease Spread

Chiang Mai Governor Urges Units to Expedite Elimination of Mosquito Breeding Grounds to Prevent Spread of Dengue Fever and Chikungunya Disease

Chiang Mai, June 21, 2023 – In an effort to combat the increasing rate of infectious diseases in Chiang Mai province, Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn has called on all units to expedite the elimination of mosquito breeding grounds. The governor emphasized the importance of preventing the spread of dengue fever and chikungunya disease, which have been on the rise in the region.

During a meeting of the Chiang Mai Communicable Disease Committee, Governor Pongsitthaworn chaired discussions on the current situation of communicable diseases in the province. Deputy Governor Worawit Chaisawat, Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Doctor Dr. Chatuchai Maneerat, and representatives from related agencies were also present.

According to the Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Office, the rate of COVID-19 infections in Chiang Mai has been increasing, mirroring the national and global trends. Most of the infected and deceased individuals were elderly people with underlying health conditions who had received only two doses of the vaccine.

In addition to the COVID-19 situation, the province is also facing challenges with other diseases such as dengue fever and chikungunya. The cumulative rate of dengue fever cases has reached 320, with a morbidity rate of 15.83 per 100,000 population. Outbreaks have been reported in more than five districts, including Mueang Chiang Mai, Hang Dong, Wiang Haeng, Chiang Dao, and Mae Rim. Chikungunya has also been spreading, particularly in the San Pa Tong district. The governor has urged all districts to swiftly control the diseases in accordance with public health guidelines. The San Pa Tong District Sheriff has already ordered a comprehensive cleaning campaign for the entire district, with a specific focus on high-risk areas such as Ban Mae Subdistrict, Nam Bo Luang Subdistrict, San Klang Subdistrict, Thung Tom Subdistrict, and Yu Wa Subdistrict.

Furthermore, the province has seen an increase in cases of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. The governor has called for cooperation to reduce stigma among patients, ensuring they receive complete treatment. All districts have been asked to enhance risk communication measures to raise awareness about the dangers of consuming poisonous mushrooms.

Governor Pongsitthaworn emphasized the importance of public relations in promoting COVID-19 vaccination. He urged all channels to continuously inform and educate the public, especially the 608 risk groups. Additionally, the governor instructed all districts to mobilize officials and volunteers to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in households and gardens, as these are the primary causes of dengue fever and chikungunya.

With these concerted efforts, Chiang Mai aims to curb the spread of infectious diseases and protect the health and well-being of its residents.

What proactive measures can individuals and communities take to prevent water accumulation and reduce the risk of dengue fever and chikungunya disease

Ere infected with the Delta variant of the virus. However, the governor highlighted that dengue fever and chikungunya disease are also posing significant threats to public health in the province.

Governor Pongsitthaworn stressed the urgent need to tackle the root cause of these diseases by eliminating mosquito breeding grounds. Mosquitoes are the carriers of both dengue fever and chikungunya disease, and their breeding sites must be targeted to prevent further spread.

The governor called on all units, including government agencies, local authorities, and communities, to work together in expediting efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures such as removing stagnant water, cleaning and covering water containers, and ensuring proper disposal of waste to prevent water accumulation.

Deputy Governor Worawit Chaisawat echoed the governor’s sentiments and urged all relevant authorities to step up their efforts in eliminating mosquito breeding grounds. He stressed the need for regular monitoring and inspection of potential breeding sites, such as discarded tires, flower pots, and open containers.

Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Doctor Dr. Chatuchai Maneerat provided updates on the current situation of dengue fever and chikungunya disease in the province. He highlighted the importance of early detection and prompt treatment to prevent complications and reduce the mortality rate of these diseases.

Representatives from related agencies, including the Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Office and local health centers, assured the governor of their commitment to intensifying efforts in mosquito control and disease prevention. They pledged to collaborate with communities and raise public awareness about the importance of eliminating mosquito breeding grounds.

With the rainy season approaching, the risk of mosquito breeding is expected to increase. The governor stressed the need for continued vigilance and sustained efforts in mosquito control to prevent the further spread of dengue fever and chikungunya disease.

In conclusion, Governor Pongsitthaworn’s call to expedite the elimination of mosquito breeding grounds in Chiang Mai province reflects the urgency in tackling the rising rates of dengue fever and chikungunya disease. Collaborative efforts among government agencies, local authorities, and communities are crucial in preventing the spread of these diseases and ensuring public health and safety in the region.