The move includes speeding up the procurement of influenza vaccines to help curb further outbreaks.
At a Communicable Disease Committee meeting held at the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office earlier this week, Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai chaired discussions with key health officials and representatives from relevant agencies. The meeting focused on reviewing disease trends, reinforcing preventative strategies, and coordinating vaccination efforts.
Recent health data presented at the meeting shows Phuket ranks third nationwide for influenza cases, with 70 patients reported in the past month. The number is expected to rise.
Meanwhile, 266 cases of dengue fever were recorded in the same period, though no deaths have been reported. The majority of cases occurred in Mueang District, particularly in Wichit, affecting mostly children aged 5 to 9. Officials noted the overall trend for dengue is decreasing.
Acute diarrhea cases are also on the rise, placing Phuket fourth nationwide. In the last month, 104 cases were reported, with the highest incidence among individuals aged 20–29. Kathu District saw the most cases, followed by Mueang and Thalang.
Vice Governor Samawit called for a coordinated, proactive approach from all agencies to monitor and manage disease outbreaks, said an official report of the meeting.
He emphasised the need for timely reporting and public awareness, and confirmed that the province is working with the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPHO) to secure 79,156 doses of influenza vaccine.
The meeting also reviewed several public health strategies, including Phuket’s 2023-2027 action plans for disease surveillance, the eradication of AIDS by 2030, and efforts to maintain rabies-free zones.
Measures under the Communicable Diseases Act were also discussed, especially protocols at international entry points.
Officials reaffirmed their commitment to protecting public health and urged residents to stay informed and take precautions during the upcoming rainy season, when the risk of communicable diseases tends to rise, the report noted.