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Contagious Diseases and Health Risks: Key Concerns in 2025

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Thailand ⁤Public Health Update: Contagious‍ Diseases & Health Hazards – 2025

Thailand’s public health authorities⁣ are monitoring ‌a range of infectious diseases and health hazards as of ⁤late 2025. This report summarizes⁢ key⁢ findings and preventative ‌measures for ‌eight contagious diseases, alongside data on non-communicable health risks. A concerning⁤ trend across several illnesses is⁢ a‍ higher ⁤incidence of severe outcomes and fatalities in individuals ⁣aged 60 years and over.

Vector-Borne Diseases:

* Chikungunya Disease: in 2025,‍ 1,064 cases of Chikungunya ‍(characterized by fever and joint pain) ⁢were reported, with no fatalities. The highest ⁤incidence was ​observed in the 35-44 age group.Case numbers represent a 2.4-fold increase ‌compared‌ too 2024,with concentrations⁣ in Chiang Mai,Bueng ‍Kan,Lamphun,and Udon thani provinces.
* Sika⁤ Virus Infection: 175 cases of Sika virus infection were identified‍ in 2025, primarily affecting individuals ⁤aged ⁤25-34.Notably, there was an increase in reported⁢ infections‌ among pregnant ⁣women. Transmitted by mosquitoes, symptoms include low-grade fever, rash,⁣ joint pain, conjunctivitis (red eyes),‍ and fatigue.
* Leptospirosis (Quick Fever): ⁣Between January 1st and September 4th,2025,a cumulative total of 2,631 Leptospirosis ⁣cases were recorded,resulting in 32 deaths. The highest number of cases and fatalities‌ occurred⁣ in⁣ individuals⁣ aged 60 years or older. Individuals who ⁣have walked through mud or been exposed to floodwaters ‍within 1-2 weeks are urged to seek immediate medical attention,‌ informing their ‌doctor of potential exposure.
* Melioidosis (Earthworm Disease): From January 1st ⁣to August 29th, 2025, 2,782‍ cases⁣ of Melioidosis were reported, ⁢with 130 fatalities. Similar to ‌leptospirosis, the‍ highest incidence and mortality rates were observed ⁣in the 60+ age group. Preventative measures include avoiding direct contact with soil and water, thorough⁣ washing with soap and ⁤water after ‍exposure, consuming fully cooked food, drinking properly packaged or boiled water, avoiding dust inhalation, and seeking⁣ immediate medical attention for persistent fever (lasting‌ two days or more) following ⁢soil/water contact.

Emerging &⁢ Re-emerging⁢ Infectious diseases:

*⁢ Bird⁣ flu ⁢(Avian Influenza): Globally, 27 cases of bird flu were⁤ reported in 2025, resulting in 9⁣ deaths. While the risk to thailand remains low, ‌continuous monitoring is essential. ‌ Public health officials advise avoiding contact with abnormal or deceased poultry ​or livestock, wearing protective gear (masks, gloves) when handling animals, ⁢and thorough handwashing afterward. Reporting of mass poultry deaths to livestock authorities is ⁤crucial. Individuals ⁣experiencing flu-like ⁤symptoms (fever, cough,⁢ breathing difficulties, conjunctivitis) should seek medical ⁤care. ⁢Travelers ⁢to outbreak areas should ⁣obtain travel health insurance and stay informed about‌ local conditions. ⁢Countries ‍with reported outbreaks as of August 2025 include Cambodia, the‍ United ‌States, Mexico,⁤ India,​ Canada,​ the United Kingdom, France,⁤ Germany, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Vietnam,⁣ Taiwan, and Brazil. Individuals returning from these countries ⁢who develop⁢ influenza-like symptoms within two weeks should inform ⁤their doctor ⁤of their travel history.
* Polio: In August 2025,​ a case of‌ circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 1 (CVDPV1) was reported in‍ savanna District, Lao PDR. ​ Thai‌ health authorities ‍are emphasizing the importance of polio vaccination for children. Parents‍ are urged to ensure their children are‌ fully vaccinated,‌ and those with incomplete or delayed vaccination schedules should receive the necessary doses at public health facilities. Travelers to⁣ polio outbreak areas without a vaccination history are advised to receive a booster dose at ‍least⁤ four weeks​ prior ‍to travel.

Other⁢ Health Hazards:

*⁣ Electrical Accidents: In 2025, 88⁢ people were injured and 88 died from⁤ electric shock incidents.
* Lightning Strikes: 58 people were injured and 5 people died from lightning strikes in 2025. ⁣The highest number of ⁢injuries and ‍deaths from​ both electrical accidents and⁤ lightning strikes occurred in the 45-49‌ age group.

This⁢ data is based on‍ data ⁤available⁢ as of late 2025 ‌and ⁣is subject to change.​ The Ministry⁢ of ⁢Public Health continues to monitor these and other health threats⁤ to protect the population of Thailand.

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World

South Korea Lists New Virus as First-Class Infectious Disease

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor
written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

south Korea‍ Expands List ⁣of High-Risk Viruses, ⁣Taiwan ‍Adjusts COVID-19⁤ Vaccination⁤ Strategy

Taipei, Taiwan – Following South Korea’s⁤ recent designation of hundreds ‍of viruses as ​first-class infectious diseases, Taiwan is adjusting its COVID-19 vaccination approach to focus on high-risk populations, officials announced today. the move aligns with international⁤ trends and⁤ aims to ⁤address ⁢lingering⁤ vaccine⁢ hesitancy.Luo Yijun, a doctor from the Department of Disease Control and Management, stated that while ​combined influenza ⁢and COVID-19 vaccinations will continue this year, the COVID-19 program will now ⁣target 10 specific high-risk groups, excluding young people.⁢ this⁤ adjustment reflects a shift in strategy as the⁤ pandemic evolves. “if the epidemic changes, it‍ is not ruled out to follow​ up,” Luo⁢ added.

Currently, approximately‌ 2 ‍million doses of publicly-funded COVID-19 ⁣vaccine‌ are available​ through September 30th. Officials emphasize these​ vaccines offer strong protection against currently circulating strains both domestically and internationally,‌ urging​ eligible individuals to get ‌vaccinated. Starting October 1st,‌ Moderna vaccines will ‌be available for public vaccination at individual⁣ expense.

Chen liangyu, director of ⁣the ​Department of Health ⁤Insurance, is⁢ also‍ taking‍ on a new role as the leader of the Health Insurance Agency.

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Health

RFK Jr. and Vaccines: Parent Survey Reveals State Divide

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

KFF/The Washington Post Survey Reveals Emerging Trends in Parental Views on Vaccines

Table of Contents

A forthcoming survey‍ from KFF and The Washington Post offers a first look at parental perspectives ​on childhood vaccines. The early release indicates ⁣a growing divergence in views, particularly ‍as influenced by ​the presidential election year and candidates like Robert F. Kennedy ‌Jr. ‌The full survey results and methodology will be released soon.

The survey highlights how political affiliation is increasingly linked ‍to vaccine attitudes. According to reporting ⁤from The Washington Post, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is “driving a wedge between red and blue states on vaccines” (The Washington Post, Sept. 4, 2025).This division is reflected in the survey data, which‌ shows notable differences in vaccine acceptance based on geographic location and political leaning.

While specific ​data points ⁣are pending the‍ full release, the initial ⁢findings suggest a complex landscape of parental concerns. these concerns range from vaccine safety and efficacy to broader ‌anxieties about government overreach and individual liberties. The KFF/Washington Post survey aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these evolving attitudes.

Background:⁢ Vaccine Hesitancy and Public Health

Vaccine hesitancy is not a new phenomenon, but its drivers and manifestations have evolved over time. Historically, concerns have centered on religious beliefs or isolated reports of adverse events.More ⁤recently, misinformation spread through social media has played a significant role in fueling skepticism. Understanding the root causes of vaccine hesitancy⁣ is crucial for ​public health officials seeking to promote ⁣vaccination ‍and protect communities from preventable diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions About the KFF/Washington‍ Post Vaccine Survey

  • What ​is the KFF/Washington Post survey about?

    The survey explores parental attitudes⁢ and beliefs regarding childhood vaccines, ⁤providing insights into the factors influencing ⁢vaccination decisions.

  • When will the full survey results be available?

    The full survey results, including detailed data and methodology, ⁤will ‌be ⁢released soon by ‍KFF and the Washington Post.

  • Does the survey address the impact‍ of political candidates on vaccine views?

    Yes, the survey​ examines how candidates like Robert F. ⁢Kennedy Jr. ​are influencing parental ‍perspectives on⁤ vaccines,particularly ‌across different states.

  • What is vaccine hesitancy?

    Vaccine hesitancy refers to the​ delay in acceptance or refusal of vaccines despite availability of vaccination services. It’s a complex issue with various contributing factors.

  • Where can I ⁢find⁤ more information⁣ about the Washington Post’s reporting on vaccines?

    You can explore the Washington ​Post’s journalism on this topic at this link.

we hope this early look at the KFF/Washington Post survey is informative. ⁢Please share this article with your network,leave a comment with your thoughts,or subscribe to our newsletter‌ for more updates on vital health news!

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Health

Influenza & Respiratory Virus Vaccines: Prevention & Importance

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Protect Yoru Lungs: ⁢New‍ Campaign Highlights Importance⁣ of Respiratory Vaccination

A new public‍ health campaign, “Breathing is Vital,” launched ⁤today by the coalition of Immunization adn ‌Promotion of Health Voces, aims to ⁤educate the public​ on preventing serious respiratory illnesses‌ through vaccination. The campaign comes​ as⁤ health ⁣officials report a concerning‍ start⁣ to the⁢ 2024-2025 influenza ‌season, with 96 lives ⁤lost ‌- a staggering 82% of whom⁢ were unvaccinated.

Influenza, respiratory‌ syncytial ⁣virus (RSV),‍ pneumococcal⁣ pneumonia, and COVID-19 all⁣ have ‌effective vaccines available,⁤ and experts emphasize the critical role they play in ⁢safeguarding health, especially as we enter peak season. this year’s influenza season has been especially unusual,​ with the virus circulating year-round, even during periods of extreme heat.

Frequently enough mistaken for a simple cold, ​influenza is actually a group of four viruses – two strains of influenza A and‌ two of influenza‌ B, including the persistent H1N1 strain.⁤ ⁢ The virus thrives within the human population, spreading easily from person to person. Common symptoms ‍include sore throat,nasal congestion,cough,headache,muscle aches,and fever. ⁢However, recent research reveals these respiratory viruses can trigger severe inflammatory ⁢responses⁤ within the body.”we’re seeing increasing ‌evidence of‍ inflammatory​ complications,” explains dr.Martínez. “Influenza can significantly raise the risk of heart attack and stroke in patients with pre-existing heart conditions. Furthermore, these viruses can ⁤reactivate ​dormant ⁣cancer cells⁣ in‍ individuals recovering ​from the disease.” Lifestyle factors like⁢ poor diet and lack⁣ of exercise also contribute to​ increased vulnerability.

Vaccination is the most ⁢effective defense against​ these complications, helping to prevent serious outcomes like acute respiratory failure syndrome, muscle⁤ damage, ⁣and toxic ‌shock syndrome. ‌ ⁣The annual influenza‍ vaccine is specifically designed‍ to target the four most prevalent strains of⁤ the virus, as influenza constantly evolves. Vaccines are also⁤ available‌ for pneumococcal pneumonia ​(recommended for adults ​50 and over),⁤ RSV, and COVID-19.

Importantly, these vaccines are readily accessible and free of charge through the Vital Plan, with administration available‌ at both large pharmacy chains and local‌ community pharmacies. ⁤ Individuals with chronic health conditions are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated to minimize the risk of exacerbating their ⁤existing ‌illnesses. Remember, these viruses can coexist,⁢ and vaccination is a proactive step towards ‌protecting yourself‌ and your community.

key changes and‌ why they‍ were made:

Stronger‌ Headline & Intro: More ​engaging⁢ and directly states the purpose.
 Reorganized Details: ⁢ Flows more logically,‌ starting with the campaign,⁣ then⁤ the problem, ​then the solution.
Removed Redundancy: The original article repeated information​ (e.g., the mutation ‍of the‍ virus) multiple times.
 More concise Language: Phrases were streamlined for clarity and impact. Attribution & Expert Voice: Dr. Martínez’s quotes are retained, ‍adding credibility.
 Focus‍ on‌ Benefits: Emphasizes why ‌vaccination is significant, not just that it’s available.
100% Original: ⁤ While preserving‍ all the core information, the phrasing and structure are⁣ entirely new. I avoided simply rearranging sentences. Removed conversational phrasing: Removed phrases like “And it‍ is indeed ⁣that…” which‍ don’t translate well to formal ‍writing.

This rewritten article aims to be informative, persuasive, and accessible to a broad audience, while ‍maintaining the integrity ‍of ⁢the original​ source material.

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Health

Study finds past H1N1 exposure shields animals from deadly H5N1

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Past Flu Immunity Shields Against Bird Flu Dangers
New Study Reveals 2009 H1N1 Protection Against Severe H5N1 Illness
Immunity developed from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic flu may offer significant protection against severe illness from current H5N1 bird flu strains, even after close exposure, a groundbreaking study suggests.

A Surprising Shield Found

Researchers have discovered that a previous infection with the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus can dramatically reduce the risk of serious illness from H5N1 bird flu. This protection was evident even when ferrets, a common model for human influenza, were exposed through close contact with an H5N1 strain originating from dairy cattle.

The study, published in *Science Translational Medicine*, investigated how prior exposure to different influenza A virus subtypes impacts susceptibility to H5N1. The findings are crucial for public health officials and frontline workers dealing with the increasing spread of avian flu among mammals, including a notable outbreak in U.S. dairy herds.

Ferrets Reveal Protective Immunity

In the research, ferrets were pre-conditioned with immunity from either the 2009 H1N1, seasonal H3N2, or influenza B viruses. Those pre-exposed to the 2009 H1N1 strain showed markedly less viral shedding and no signs of illness when later challenged with H5N1. They maintained their body weight and all survived the ordeal.

Conversely, ferrets with only seasonal H3N2 immunity experienced partial protection, with intermediate viral titers and some weight loss, though they also survived. The study highlighted that the H1N1 immunity generated robust cross-reactive antibodies, particularly targeting the neuraminidase enzyme, which effectively inhibited H5N1 neuraminidase activity.

Researchers used a well-established ferret model to test the impact of prior flu immunity on H5N1 infection and disease.

The order of prior infections also proved significant. Any ferret group that had encountered the 2009 H1N1 virus, regardless of sequence, exhibited minimal to no H5N1 shedding and did not develop disease. This suggests that the presence of H1N1 immunity was more critical than the timing of exposure.

Direct Contact Exposure Tests

In a critical direct contact experiment, ferrets naive to any influenza strain transmitted H5N1 to all their cage mates, resulting in universally fatal disease. Prior H3N2 immunity failed to prevent infection, with all contacts shedding virus and only half surviving. However, prior H1N1 immunity significantly improved outcomes. Only half of the H1N1-immune contacts experienced low, transient shedding, none developed clinical disease, and all survived.

These findings strongly indicate that immunity acquired from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus acts as a robust defense against contemporary H5N1 strains, suppressing replication and preventing severe disease, even in high-dose exposure scenarios.

Understanding the Mechanism of Protection

The study suggests that the superior protection observed in H1N1-primed animals stems from cross-reactive antibodies, specifically those targeting the N1 neuraminidase found in both H1N1 and H5N1 viruses. Low levels of antibodies targeting the H5 hemagglutinin stem were also present but did not neutralize H5.

Immunity to internal viral proteins appeared comparable between H1N1 and H3N2 groups, implying that the enhanced defense against H5N1 is likely linked to hemagglutinin or neuraminidase cross-reactivity rather than broader immune responses.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that as of June 2024, there have been 41 laboratory-confirmed human infections with H5N1 avian influenza in the United States, primarily linked to dairy cattle. Most of these cases have been mild, a trend this study’s findings may help to explain.

Implications for Future Preparedness

The research concludes that preexisting immunity to the 2009 H1N1 pandemic influenza virus offers substantial protection against H5N1 infection, replication, and illness in ferrets, even following direct, high-dose exposure. Immunity to seasonal H3N2 provided some attenuation of illness but did not reliably prevent infection.

The authors noted limitations, including the controlled infection intervals in ferrets and the inability to assess cellular immunity. Nevertheless, these insights are invaluable for developing future preparedness strategies, designing effective vaccines, and informing risk assessment and clinical surveillance policies, particularly emphasizing the role of neuraminidase-focused cross-reactivity.

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Health

Influenza cases nearly 20 per cent higher than 2024 as Queensland faces one of its worst flu seasons in years

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Queensland is looking at one of its worst flu seasons in years, at a time when government incentives appear to have failed to improve vaccination rates.

So far this year, influenza cases are nearly 20 per cent higher than they were last year, and 2,800 cases were recorded in the last week alone — the highest weekly total of 2025.

The volume of virus within the community is of real concern to experts, who forecast a potential “surge” in cases after the school holidays.

“Kids are all heading back to school in a couple of weeks, which will give them the opportunity to spread [influenza],” Dr Stephen Lambert, a senior medical officer with the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) said.

“This time last year, we probably only had a third to a half of our cases.

“So, there’s the real chance we’ll be getting a surge of cases later in winter that people still have the opportunity to protect themselves against.”

So far this year, 80 Queenslanders have died from influenza. According to Queensland Health, 300 beds are being taken up each day across the state for people with the flu.

Of the 3,000 people who have been hospitalised as a result of influenza in 2025, 92 per cent have not been vaccinated.

Influenza admissions to Queensland public hospitals so far this year.

Queensland jab rates some of the lowest

Since 2022, the Queensland government has funded free flu vaccinations, yet the state continues to have some of the lowest vaccination rates in the country, particularly amongst children.

According to data provided by NCIRS, just 16 per cent of children under five have had a flu jab so far this year in Queensland — the lowest in the country.

At 11.5 per cent, the rate of children aged between 5 to 15 who have been vaccinated is second only to the Northern Territory as the lowest in the country.

Queensland’s vaccination rates for those aged between 15 to 50 is also the second lowest nationally.

“I think so many people think these viruses only affect the old and heavily co-morbid, so if you’re young and fit and well, you don’t need to worry about them,” said Dr Paul Griffin, director of infectious diseases at the Mater Hospital.

“That’s certainly not the case. Unfortunately, every year we see young people without traditional risk factors end up unwell in hospital.”

While those aged over 65 are at particular risk from flu, Queensland Health warned children are some of the most effective spreaders of the virus in the community, and young children are a very vulnerable cohort.

Free vaccines not boosting uptake

So far this year, 450 children aged between six months and 17 years old have been hospitalised with influenza.

Free flu vaccinations were introduced to address a decline in the number of people getting one post-pandemic.

In 2022, 36 per cent of Queenslanders got vaccinated, declining to just 29 per cent by 2024.

This year the government extended the program, allocating $25 million towards it.

However, Dr Lambert said vaccination rates remained stubbornly low in 2025.

“I’m not sure the message is really getting out there, despite our efforts,” he said.

“I’ve spoken to friends who aren’t involved in health who haven’t been aware that they can get a free flu vaccine this year.”

Influenza cases nearly 20 per cent higher than 2024 as Queensland faces one of its worst flu seasons in years

Free flu vaccinations were introduced to address a decline in the number of people getting one post-pandemic. (ABC News: Michael Lloyd)

Dr Lambert said he suspected there was an element of “vaccine fatigue” in the community post-pandemic, and some complacency about the potential seriousness of influenza.

Vaccine misinformation still a concern

He said a small number of people with a strong anti-vaccination stance were also more active and effective at getting their message out there.

“They’re very energised, they’re very vitriolic … and perhaps some of that messaging leaks out into other people who were perhaps sitting on the fence,” Dr Lambert said.

“It’s a shame that’s potentially resulted in people having some hesitancy or scepticism about receiving vaccination, because they’re one of the best public health interventions we’ve had in the past 100 years.”

Dr Griffin said the amount of misinformation about vaccines was very prevalent online.

“I think it’s impossible to be immune to the impacts of that,”

he said.

“If people get their information from social media and other outlets that are just full of misinformation, then they’ll be misled to a degree that actually creates a very significant amount of harm.

“So, get your information from reputable sources.”

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