Bangkok: The Ministry of Public Health has issued a warning that the influenza outbreak in 2026 is expected to be significant, urging at-risk groups to urgently receive vaccinations.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, highlighted that the Department of Disease Control anticipates a higher number of influenza cases this year compared to the previous year. She advised that the public, particularly those in high-risk categories, should promptly get vaccinated to mitigate the severity and transmission of the disease.
The deputy spokesperson reported that disease surveillance data from January 1st to March 9th, 2026, revealed 137,276 registered cases, reflecting a morbidity rate of 211.48 per 100,000 population, along with 8 reported fatalities. The age groups most affected by influenza include children aged 5-9 years, 0-4 years, and 10-14 years.
Several provinces, including Phayao, Phitsanulok, Chiang Mai, and Lamphun, have been identified as having elevated infection rates, with outbreaks predominantly occurring in community settings and educational institutions.
The fatalities largely involved elderly individuals aged 60 and above, as well as those with pre-existing conditions such as lung and heart diseases or immunodeficiency disorders, who are at a greater risk of developing severe symptoms compared to others.
Ms. Lalida also stated that in 2025, Thailand recorded 1,194,342 influenza cases and 129 deaths. The anticipated increase in cases for 2026 is attributed to the resumption of social activities and inter-regional travel.
The government is seeking public cooperation in adopting preventive measures against influenza, including frequent hand washing, wearing face masks, avoiding crowded areas, and resting if experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, or runny nose to prevent close contact with others.
Ms. Lalida emphasized, 'If you experience a high fever, cough, shortness of breath, or your symptoms do not improve within 1-2 days, you should see a doctor immediately, especially if you are in a high-risk group such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with underlying medical conditions.'