The Disease Control Department is advising members of the public to be extraordinarily aware of Dengue Fever, amidst widespread COVID-19 infections, noting that the death toll from the disease is on an increasing trend, with three Dengue deaths this year found to be infected with coronavirus as well, said the department's head Dr. Opart Karnkawinpong.
He also warned the public to take precautions against other common conditions during the hot season, such as digestive diseases, diarrhea, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
He said that there are signs that the fatality rate among people suffering from Dengue is on the rise, with six deaths being reported last year, adding that the three victims treated themselves with aspirin, resulting in gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.
As people tend to be more concerned about COVID-19 at the moment, he said that they have ignored the threat from Dengue Fever, noting that Dengue can be as life threatening as COVID-19.
Dr. Opart said that this year, up to February 9th, 305 dengue fever cases have been recorded, including two deaths.
Dengue Fever was diagnosed most often in the 5-14 age group, followed by 15-24-year-olds.
The majority of cases were reported in Bangkok, with more cases expected across the country, due to the rain, which provides patches of stagnant water in which mosquitoes breed.