The Thai Ministry of Public Health has ramped up its efforts to improve community health and safety through various initiatives aimed at tackling pressing health issues across the nation. Key highlights from recent events include workshops on effective management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), training for health officials, and preventive measures against rabies and drowning, especially as schools approach summer break.
On December 6, 2023, the Ministry hosted the "Virtual NCD Forum," focusing on enhancing the management of chronic diseases using innovative techniques such as "SKT Meditation Healing Exercise." The forum featured several key sessions, including presentations on the implementation and impacts of SKT meditation on disease management nationwide. The forum participants discussed significant findings related to how this technique could bolster the existing health networks addressing NCDs across Thailand.
Dr. Thaweechai Visanuyothin, the director of the Disease Control Office Number 9, emphasized during the forum the importance of adopting integrated mental health approaches within clinics specializing in NCDs. Discussions also highlighted motivational interviewing strategies to increase patient engagement and promote positive behavioral changes for managing chronic conditions.
Meanwhile, as part of their weekly competency training regime, the Office of Epidemiology conducted assessments on teams responsible for disease investigation tasked with controlling infectious diseases, known as the JIT DDC. Focused on improving efficiency and responsiveness, these trainings are key components of the Ministry’s broader strategy to strengthen public health interventions.
Another pressing concern addressed by the Ministry is the rising risk of rabies. The Epidemiology Office at Ubon Ratchathani has been monitoring rabies situations closely, particularly after the confirmed reports of rabies infections among pets and livestock. Health officials are rigorously advising the public to seek immediate vaccination following exposure to rabid animals and to avoid consuming undercooked beef, which can also pose health risks.
Dr. Thaweechai stressed, "Vaccination is the only proven method to prevent rabies infections and fatalities. Immediate action is required if bitten or scratched by potentially infected animals." Noting the urgency, he called upon community members to report any unusual symptoms observed in local cattle or pets to authorities without delay.
With the end of the school year approaching, the Ministry has also been vocal about ensuring children's safety near natural water bodies. The quick transition from school to vacation can sometimes expose youngsters to dangers associated with unsupervised swimming. Dr. Thaweechai urged parents to closely monitor their children to prevent drowning incidents, as even brief lapses of supervision can lead to tragic outcomes.
Guidelines provided for water safety include advice for younger children to avoid going near open water without adult supervision and to keep away from dangerous edges. For those capable of swimming, he suggested measures for rescuing others who might fall where safety permits.
“It is imperative for the community to engage with our recommendations during these warmer months when children are more likely to play near water,” he remarked. He reinforced the message with practical tips, stating, "If you see someone fall, always shout for help and provide support using objects nearby rather than jumping directly in. Ensure to call emergency services to safely extract the individual from danger.”
The Ministry's adult drowning prevention guidelines reiterate the need for creating safe environments at recreational water sites, including installing warning signs, providing life-saving equipment, and conducting regular educational training for both adults and children.
To sum up, Thailand's Ministry of Public Health is implementing comprehensive strategies to educate and protect its citizens against NCDs, rabies, and accidental drownings. With community-driven approaches, officials aspire to build resilience and awareness, ensuring public health becomes everyone's responsibility.