PUBLISHED : 22 Dec 2024 at 15:50
The Public Health Ministry of Thailand has activated an emergency operations center (EOC) in Tak province to address the threat of cholera, which has begun to spread from the nearby city of Shwe Kokko in Myanmar. So far, two cholera cases have been confirmed in Tak.
Dr. Opas Karnkawinpong, permanent secretary of public health, announced on Sunday that the Tak public health office will now serve as the EOC, with Dr. Supachok Wechaphanphesat appointed as its commander.
The EOC is focusing on monitoring the potential for cholera cases among border communities, factories, and refugee camps.
Additionally, the center is overseeing the quality of drinking water, offering hygiene advice to locals and migrants, managing food safety at fairs and vendors, and preparing medical supplies, including rapid test kits to combat cholera outbreaks.
Dr. Opas emphasized that Mae Ramat and Mae Sot districts are at heightened risk due to their proximity to Shwe Kokko, where a significant number of factories and migrant communities are located. He noted that the upcoming New Year celebrations might also increase the risk due to communal gatherings and shared meals.
Currently, around 200 cholera cases have been reported in Shwe Kokko, resulting in two fatalities and two cases identified in Mae Sot district.
Local authorities noted that these two cases were admitted to Mae Sot Hospital, with evidence suggesting that a pregnant woman from Myanmar infected with cholera gave birth on the Thai side. A family member from Tak who visited her contracted the disease.
In response, military personnel are patrolling Mae Ramat and Mae Sot to prevent illegal crossings at natural border points. Tak officials have also supplied medical support to counterparts in Shwe Kokko to enhance disease control measures.
Residents near the border reported that many cholera cases in Shwe Kokko involve Chinese employers and their Myanmar workers.
Dr. Supachok confirmed that the two cholera cases in Tak involved a male and female from Myanmar who frequently cross into Thailand for work. Both presented mild symptoms, with one already discharged from the hospital.
Residents are urged to maintain strict hygiene practices and opt for well-cooked food to safeguard against cholera infection.
