Thailand’s A (H1N1) measures on right track: WHO

BANGKOK, 9 July 2009 (NNT) – The Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia indicated that Thailand’s counter-measures against the influenza A (H1N1) were along the right lines.

Dr. Samlee Plianbangchang, the WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, stated that the strategies used by the Thai Public Health Ministry to handle the H1N1 virus outbreak were on the right track and corresponded with the ones used by the WHO. He explained that the ministry’s assurance that the disease did not contain hazardous effects was not a distortion of fact.

In regards to the soaring number of flu-infected patients as well as the death toll in the country, which had become the highest in the region, Dr. Samlee clarified that such increases were due to the country’s effective measures in monitoring and reporting the development of the virus situation.

Dr. Samlee also asked the people not to be overanxious with the virus outbreak. He suggested that they keep themselves healthy, follow the suggestions by the Ministry of Public Health, frequently wash their hands and follow up the virus situation. The Regional Director also commented on the government’s plan to close some game shops and tuition agencies, saying that, although it would not prevent the spread of the virus, it could encourage the public to be more health-oriented.