12 health risks in Thailand

Bangkok Post- Twelve key diseases and health risks will take the lives of almost 80,000 Thais over the next year, says the Epidemiology Bureau.

In recently released disease projections for the year ahead, the bureau listed 12 diseases and health risks, including influenza, HIV/Aids, haze, and chemical accidents, which it says are areas of prime concern.

They will affect 12.5 million people, and take 78,000 lives.

The bureau believes 10,100 new cases of HIV/Aids will be reported this year, and an estimated 205,350 HIV-positive people will need access to medicines. Up to one million people are likely to catch influenza, with 300 people likely to die.

Flu vaccination, particularly among those at high risk of infection such as health workers, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases could help reduce risk of the virus, Dr Pasakorn said.

Outbreaks of vector-borne diseases such as dengue fever will probably increase nationwide this year, with 70,000-90,000 cases forecast particularly in cities and municipal areas in the central and southern regions.

Dr Pasakorn said 300,000-400,000 people are bitten by dogs every year, resulting in 15 to 20 deaths from rabies.