The number of dengue fever cases have grown by some 6,000 in the past week, putting the total cases near 130,000 year-to-date, according to Thailand health officials. Between the beginning of the year and Dec. 8, health officials report a total of 129,040 cases from all 77 provinces.
In addition, the number of dengue-related fatalities increased by nine in the past week, bringing the total to 125.
The top five provinces with the highest morbidity rate include Rayong (551.46 / 100,000 population.) Rachaburi (486.75 / 100,000 population.) Petchburi (470.06 / 100,000 population.) Uthaithani (458.54 / 100,000 population.) and Chanthaburi (401.63 / 100,000 population.).
Dengue is transmitted by the bite of an Aedes aegypti mosquito infected with any one of the four dengue viruses. It occurs in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world. Among the estimated 2.5 billion people at risk globally, more than 70% reside in Asia Pacific countries, according to the World Health Organization.
Severe dengue (fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, bleeding) is a potentially lethal complication, affecting mainly children. Early clinical diagnosis and careful clinical management increase the survival of patients.
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An important point to remember if you are traveling to an area with dengue (which includes some southern states in the USA) is that dengue is a MUCH milder disease in people who are well hydrated. This is so pronounced that dengue has been called a disease of dehydration. Treatment includes hydration, bedrest, and acetaminophen for fever. NSAIDs are to be avoided because dengue drops the platelet count. Even with very low platelet counts, dengue can be successfully treated simply with oral rehydration and bedrest.