Thailand’s Cholera Situation Under Control, Says Department of Disease Control
The Department of Disease Control has confirmed that the cholera situation in Thailand remains stable, despite the World Health Organization (WHO) designating it as a state of emergency to raise global awareness and prevent widespread outbreaks. Dr. Panumas Yanwetsakul, Director-General of the Department of disease Control, emphasized that cholera is preventable through proper food and drinking water hygiene.
The recent cholera outbreak in Shwe Kok Ko Town, Myanmar, at the end of last year prompted heightened surveillance at the Mae Sot border, due to the risk of cross-border transmission. While four patients initially sought treatment in Thailand, they have since recovered, and no further outbreaks have been detected in this group.
Cholera in Thailand: 2024 Overview
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In 2024,Thailand reported 11 confirmed cases of cholera,with no fatalities. The majority of cases were concentrated in Tak Province, where six cases were identified—three symptomatic patients and three detected through active case searches. laboratory results revealed three cases of Vibrio cholerae O139,one case of Vibrio cholerae El Tor Inaba,and seven cases of Vibrio cholerae El Tor Ogawa.
The affected individuals included seven Thai nationals, three Myanmar nationals, and one Karen individual. Cases were reported across multiple provinces, including Nakhon Ratchasima, Bangkok, Phetchabun, Phitsanulok, and Tak. Over the past five years (2019–2023), Thailand has seen sporadic cholera cases, ranging from 1 to 12 annually.
| Key Statistics (2024) | Details |
|—————————|———|
| Total Cases | 11 |
| Deaths | 0 |
| Most Affected Province | Tak (6 cases) |
| Strains Identified | Vibrio cholerae O139, El Tor Inaba, El Tor Ogawa |
| Age Groups affected | 15–29 years (2 cases), 30–44 years (4 cases), 60+ years (5 cases) |
Prevention and Public Health Measures
Dr. Panumas stressed that cholera prevention hinges on maintaining food and drinking water hygiene. He advised the public to consume fresh, clean, and freshly cooked food, while adhering to strict personal hygiene practices, such as washing hands with soap and clean water before and after eating or using the bathroom.
The Department of Disease Control also recommends the “eat cooked, hot, clean” principle to minimize risks. individuals experiencing symptoms like watery diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting should seek immediate medical attention. For those unable to visit a doctor, frequent sips of oral rehydration solution (ORS) can definately help prevent dehydration.
For further information, the public can contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422.
Global Context and Thailand’s Preparedness
While the WHO’s emergency classification aims to bolster global awareness,Dr.Panumas clarified that the current cholera situation has not reached the level of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thailand continues to monitor cholera as a communicable disease under the Disease Act of 2015, ensuring robust surveillance and response mechanisms are in place.
As Thailand remains vigilant, the focus remains on prevention and education, ensuring that the public is equipped with the knowledge to protect themselves from this preventable disease.
Thailand’s Cholera Situation: A Conversation with Dr.Supaporn Srisangnam, Public Health Specialist
In light of recent global cholera concerns raised by the World Health Organization (WHO), Thailand’s Department of Disease Control has assured the public that the cholera situation within the country remains under control. To better understand the current landscape, prevention measures, and Thailand’s preparedness, we spoke with Dr. Supaporn Srisangnam, a renowned public health specialist with over 15 years of experience in infectious disease management.
Thailand’s Current Cholera Status
Senior Editor: Dr. Supaporn, can you provide an overview of the cholera situation in Thailand as of 2024?
Dr. Supaporn: Certainly. Thailand has reported 11 confirmed cases of cholera this year, with no fatalities. The majority of these cases were concentrated in Tak Province, which shares a border with Myanmar. The identified strains include Vibrio cholerae O139, El Tor Inaba, and El Tor Ogawa. While the cases are sporadic,Thailand has maintained robust surveillance to prevent any potential outbreaks.
Cross-Border Risks and Surveillance
senior Editor: How has the recent cholera outbreak in Myanmar influenced Thailand’s response?
Dr. Supaporn: The outbreak in Shwe Kok Ko Town, Myanmar, prompted increased vigilance at the Mae Sot border. Four patients initially sought treatment in Thailand, but they have fully recovered, and no further cases have been detected. Our border surveillance teams are working diligently to monitor and mitigate any risks of cross-border transmission.
Prevention and Public Health Measures
Senior Editor: What are the key preventive measures that the public should follow to avoid cholera?
Dr. Supaporn: Cholera is entirely preventable through proper food and drinking water hygiene. I always emphasize the importance of consuming freshly cooked, clean food and ensuring that drinking water is safe. Personal hygiene, such as washing hands with soap before eating and after using the bathroom, is also critical. The department of Disease Control promotes the “eat cooked, hot, clean” principle to minimize risks. Additionally, individuals experiencing symptoms like watery diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting should seek medical attention promptly.
thailand’s Preparedness and Global Context
Senior Editor: How does thailand’s cholera situation compare to the WHO’s emergency classification?
Dr. Supaporn: The WHO’s emergency classification is a global call to action to prevent widespread outbreaks. Though, Thailand’s situation does not meet the threshold of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Under the disease Act of 2015, cholera is classified as a communicable disease, and we have established stringent surveillance and response mechanisms to manage it effectively. Our focus remains on prevention, education, and ensuring the public is well-informed to protect themselves.
Final Advice for the Public
Senior Editor: What final advice would you give to the public regarding cholera?
Dr. Supaporn: Stay vigilant, practice good hygiene, and ensure that your food and water sources are safe.If you or someone you know experiences cholera-like symptoms, seek medical help immediatly. For those unable to visit a doctor, frequent sips of oral rehydration solution (ORS) can definitely help prevent dehydration. For more facts, the public can contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422. Prevention is always better than cure, and with the right measures, we can keep cholera at bay.
