Thailand's Ministry of Public Health warns of mysterious disease originating from Afghanistan.

Afghan authorities report at least 500 people infected with the mysterious disease - Photo: KabulNow

Thailand's Ministry of Public Health is stepping up surveillance of travelers arriving from Afghanistan to prevent the potential spread of an infectious disease about which very little information is currently available.

This move comes after Afghan authorities reported that at least 500 people have been infected with the mysterious disease in the Kafshan Valley, located in Shinwari district of Parwan province, about 80km north of the capital Kabul.

Local officials said the mysterious illness was spreading rapidly and critically ill patients had been transferred to provincial hospitals and to the capital Kabul for further treatment. Symptoms included general weakness, severe limb pain, diarrhea, and high fever.

Dr. Panumas Yanwetsakul, head of the Department of Disease Control (DDC) under the Thai Ministry of Public Health , said the agency was aware of the outbreak and was taking preventative measures to screen travelers.

The DDC has instructed staff at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, U-tapao, and Hat Yai airports to closely monitor any travelers arriving from Afghanistan. Dr. Panumas said that cases with high fever or any suspicious symptoms must be isolated for further medical evaluation.

Meanwhile, pilots and crew members of all airlines flying from Afghanistan have been advised to monitor their health and wear face masks throughout the flight.

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/bo-y-te-thai-lan-canh-bao-can-benh-bi-an-tu-afghanistan-20241010131441961.htm