Alert sounds over rise in malaria cases

Over half detected in Tak province

Tak province has become a hotspot for malaria infections, and serious action is being taken to prevent further outbreaks, according to the Department of Disease Control (DDC).

According to department statistics, there have been 2,913 cases recorded in Thailand since January. The majority — 1,671 cases — were found in Tak, followed by 308 in Mae Hong Son, 251 in Kanchanaburi, 187 in Ranong and 174 in Prachuap Khiri Khan, among others, the statistics showed.

Approximately 60% of patients were foreigners, the DDC said.

Dr Thongchai Keeratihuttayakorn, the department chief, said yesterday that an increase in malaria patients, especially in western border provinces, has prompted the department to monitor the situation closely and devise a plan to tackle the issue.

He said the department has told health officials along the border to be on their guard against infections, adding that early detection and quick medical treatment can prevent further transmissions.

According to World Health Organization (WHO) 2022 data, 249 million malaria cases were reported globally, with 608,000 deaths in 85 countries.

Thailand has implemented a 20172026 strategic plan to eradicate the disease in close cooperation with USAID, the WHO and the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance.

Currently, 49 provinces in the country are considered malaria-free.

On World Malaria Day yesterday, Steve G Olive, USAID mission director, said that Thailand’s attempts at controlling the disease are exemplary.

He also praised the government’s real-time monitoring of the malaria situation, an effort in early detection and prompt medical response.

The DDC has launched a “1-3-7 preventive plan”, in which a warning is issued within a day after a case is found, followed by the identification of the source within three days and a proactive plan to prevent further transmission within seven days, according to Dr Thongchai.

Marsh mosquitoes, which are often found in mountain forests, rubber plantations and near natural water sources, are carriers of malaria, said a department official.

It is therefore recommended that people living in high-risk areas, as well as tourists staying overnight in mountain forests, protect themselves from mosquito bites, especially between dusk and dawn, the official said.

Those with symptoms such as fever, headache or chills must see a doctor immediately, the official said. The symptoms should be observed for 10 to 14 days, the official added.