Thailand has the highest infection and death rates in Southeast Asia, according to a dentist.
PUBLISHED: 11 Oct 2024 at 21: 34
After a review that revealed there have been about 700, 000 infection and 205 Covid-related murders in Thailand this year, medical experts are urging some members of the public to get another Covid-19 vaccine booster.
According to Assoc Prof Dr. Piroon Mootsikapun, chairman of the Infectious Diseases Association of Thailand, the frequency at which the virus is spreading in Thailand is still high.
Of the more than 700, 000 people infected as of Sept 16, about 48, 000 needed hospital remains and 205 died, he said.
At a seminar held on Wednesday at Ramathibodi Hospital, he claimed,” This is the highest infection rate and death statistic ( for Covid ) in Southeast Asia.”
Most of the casualties were among the so-called 608 high-risk class, referring to people aged 60 and older, those who have one or more of eight serious health problems, and infertile women.
” Compared to influenza, which has had about 490, 000 cases and 36 incidents since the beginning of 2024, Covid-19 is considered more intense, with a significantly higher number of people and deaths. Of the fatalities, 80-90 % were in the 608 risk group”, said Dr Piroon.
Enrollment and deaths from Covid-19 tend to increase during long festivals, like as Songkran and New Year. As a result, individuals may use masks in crowded places and get a booster shot to establish resistance, he said.
Prof Dr Sasisopin Kiertiburanakul, a member of the the Royal College of Physicians of Thailand, said some people get bored with other illnesses after recovering from Covid-19, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, heart and mind condition.
So-called Long Covid is found in about 15 % of Covid-19 people.
Boosters remain important, Dr Sasisopin said, adding the latest information shows their success to be about 60-70 % when it comes to preventing serious illness and death, particularly among high-risk parties.
Tanapol Dokkaew from the Thailand-based Kidney Friends Association urged the government to make sure there were enough Covid-19 vaccinations for those who were deemed to be at high risk and those who had chronic diseases.
” Some people have forgotten about Covid-19 but the condition will be with us always. Hence, booster shots are also needed, especially among the 608 team” he said.