Complaints about the infestation were raised yesterday (May 26), with residents reporting large numbers of flies swarming throughout the communities and disrupting daily life, hygiene and local businesses.
According to residents, many restaurants and food vendors have been heavily affected, with customers reportedly avoiding some establishments because of flies contaminating food and dining areas. Some families said conditions had become so bad they were unable to eat meals comfortably at home.
Residents also voiced concern about the potential spread of disease, warning that flies can transmit diarrhoea, food poisoning and other gastrointestinal illnesses, particularly among children and elderly people.
Schools and vulnerable residents in the area were said to be among those directly impacted.
Initial public health advice shared with residents included keeping food and drinking water covered, maintaining cleanliness around homes and rubbish bins, washing hands regularly and seeking medical treatment if symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting or fever develop.
The issue was also highlighted by Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee, who posted an appeal calling for urgent intervention from authorities.
In his statement, Mr Chalermpong said businesses were suffering as flies continually infested food, discouraging customers and affecting livelihoods.
“The most important thing is the health, safety and quality of life of the residents,” he said.
He urged the Phuket Governor, local administrative organisations, public health officials and all relevant agencies to investigate the source of the infestation and urgently implement measures to bring the situation under control before it worsens further.
So far no official explanation for the source of the infestation has been announced.