Rapid Increase of Smallpox Cases in Thailand: Prevention, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

2023-07-01 11:39:00

Bangkok, July 1 – Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health. Thailand reported 48 smallpox cases in June 2023, higher than May. There were 21 reported cases, or a 2.3-fold increase in the number of patients. The majority of patients were males. Emphasizing that smallpox can be prevented by avoiding close contact with the patient’s skin or rashes, pustules, secretions, and not sharing objects.

Today (July 1, 2023), Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong The Director-General of the Department of Disease Control said that smallpox was an emerging contagious disease in Thailand. The first patient was found in July 2022. Currently, there are 91 cases reported in Thailand and the trend continues to increase. In June, just one month A total of 48 new cases were reported, which is 2.3 times more than the 21 cases recorded in May, 41 Thais, 7 foreigners, mostly in Bangkok (38 cases) and 3 in Samut Prakan Province. Chonburi, Nonthaburi, 2 cases per province, Samut Sakhon, Phuket, Pathum Thani, 1 case per province, 48 cases, among men who have sex with men. And a history of HIV infection (22 cases, representing 45.8% of cases in June 2023), most of them had risk factors from unprotected sex. or having sex with an unknown stranger before getting sick

Dr. Tares further said that no patients with severe symptoms or death have yet been found. Notice that last month Nearly half of all new smallpox cases are HIV-infected. The disease can be prevented by avoiding close contact with the patient. or people suspected of being infected with smallpox Including refraining from having sex with unknown strangers and can check the initial symptoms by themselves If there is a rash / blisters in the genital area, anus, mouth or body and had a history of close contact, intimate contact, or having sex with suspected smallpox or smallpox patients Including caregivers of patients suspected of having smallpox while sick. Observe within 21 days after touching the patient if there is a fever, headache, muscle aches or back pain, swollen lymph nodes such as behind the ears, neck, groin, sore throat, nasal congestion or cough, rash or blisters or pustules on organs. Gender or anus or around it, hands, feet, breasts, face or mouth area. to be examined at a health facility or hospital By notifying symptoms and risk history immediately along with suggesting ways to prevent smallpox infection, such as avoiding sex with unknown strangers Avoid close contact with people with rashes, blisters or pus. Avoid being in crowded places. It is also recommended to wash your hands frequently. and do not share personal belongings with others, etc.

Dr. Sopon Iamsirithaworn, M.D. Deputy Director General Department of Disease Control added that The situation of the smallpox epidemic increased rapidly in a month. This reflects risky behaviors that lead to transmission among males of reproductive age. Especially the group of men who have sex with men. The Department of Disease Control therefore asks for cooperation in networks that work closely with the public, such as hospitals and private clinics. civil society organizations Health establishments, such as spas, saunas, help publicize and educate. and advice on observing smallpox symptoms for the public to create correct knowledge and understanding and prevention of smallpox for targeted people at risk Emphasizing that “Smallpox” can be prevented by avoiding close contact with the patient’s skin and not sharing objects. In addition to wearing a condom when having sex. Notice the pustules in areas where there is a chance of skin contact. to prevent the risk of infection from exposure

for HIV treatment clinics Please increase the communication of measures to prevent smallpox regularly. along with other health care matters For more information, please contact the Department of Disease Control hotline 1422 .-Thai News Agency.

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Man who loves men, smallpox, monkey disease