A recent message posted on the Ministry of Public Health’s (MPH) website warned people to look after their health due to weather conditions.
The message also advised parents to take care of children during the raining season.
The message on the website read: “Protect oneself from the rain because it can easily cause respiratory disease, especially common flu or influenza. Take an umbrella when heading outdoors, and if you get wet dry off immediately, change cloths, and drink warm water.
“People are advised to eat healthy food including fruit and vegetables to build their immune system to battle against common colds. Infants should drink breast milk, while toddlers and young children need healthy food and to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. Exercise is vital to keep the body warm, get enough rest, do not sleep next to the window, wear warm clothing, stay away from sick people who have a flu, cough, or sneeze and wash hands often.
“Government hospitals offer free Influenza vaccines from May 1-July 31 for risk groups – pregnant woman (4 months up), toddlers 6 months-two years, patients with chronic diseases, and people aged 65 and over. Call your local hospital to check if they have vaccines available.”
A coordinator from Phuket International Hospital confirmed to The Phuket News today (July 14) that the hospital is experiencing the usual annual influx of patients with influenza and other respiratory infections – particularly child patients. The main strains this year are the usual Influenza A & B, but to-date no patients with H1N1 or any other new strains.
“It is typical for Phuket to experience an outbreak of influenza during the rainy months from May - October. The hospital recommends people have an influenza vaccine every year, usually in May. Nationally and locally it has been found that the number of patients that become infected with influenza is rising each year,” the coordinator said.
A member of staff from Vachira Hospital Phuket who asked not to be named said, “The number of patients with a colds is pretty much the same like last year. It is quite normal around this time of the year when many people get sick, especially young children.”