On February 28, 2025, Thailand's Ministry of Public Health updated the public on significant disease outbreaks, emphasizing the importance of combating tuberculosis and hepatitis, along with raising awareness about influenza prevention.
During the announcement, Dr. Phanumart Yanwaetsakul, the Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, stressed the continuous effort needed to eliminate the stigma associated with tuberculosis (TB), which he characterized as both contagious and curable through consistent treatment. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported Thailand's reduction of new tuberculosis cases; nevertheless, the incidence rate remains concerning at 157 per 100,000 people.
Dr. Phanumart indicated, “Stigmatization leads to discrimination, which hinders our overall efforts to eliminate TB. Individuals diagnosed with TB often fear discrimination, discouraging them from seeking necessary diagnostic services.” This pervasive societal stigma affects the general perception and treatment of TB patients, impeding their access to both medical care and workplace opportunities.
His colleague, Dr. Niti Heatanurak, the Deputy Director-General, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the necessity for widespread awareness and education about TB for healthcare professionals and the general public. “Understanding the causes, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of TB is pivotal,” he added. Screening and educating individuals living with those infected, especially household contacts, is considered imperative.
Dr. Niti pointed out the steps to combat TB transmission have to be initiated from the moment individuals recognize they could be at risk until they receive diagnosis and treatment. He stated, “By fostering awareness and educating society on TB, we can reduce stigma, support patients, and enable access to health services, allowing for sustained treatment.”
To this end, he noted the commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the WHO’s End TB Strategy by 2035 remains on track. The ministry is encouraging the public to support this initiative by providing accurate information about TB, leading to fewer instances of discrimination and ensuring access to treatment.
On the same day, Dr. Niti Heatanurak chaired a workshop to bolster capacities among healthcare professionals tackling hepatitis B and C. The aim was to disseminate policies to local healthcare executives to synchronize operations across regions. Emphasizing hepatitis as a growing concern, he highlighted the ministry’s goal to eradicate these viruses by 2030. “We aim to screen 40 million people born before 1992 to detect and treat hepatitis cases,” said Dr. Niti.
He added, “A significant push for awareness of hepatitis B and C is needed to facilitate access to screening and effective treatment, especially for high-risk groups.” The ministry's call hinges on collaboration from various sectors to resolve these health issues efficiently.
Simultaneously, the department reiterated the presence of the dengue fever and confirmed it is not classified as a new outbreak. There have been increases reported, primarily among children. Public health initiatives are being put forth actively to curb dengue virus transmission particularly during the rainy season.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Health advised communities to remain vigilant and proactive about preventive health measures during this period. People are encouraged to partake actively and work hand in hand with health authorities to mitigate the impacts of these diseases.
Doctors urge individuals to adhere to preventive measures and take vaccinations where applicable. They stated the public's cooperation is pivotal to successfully eliminating these diseases and achieving communal health goals.
All efforts craned around sweeping educational campaigns must also encompass strategies for their respective diseases with commemorative support frameworks and exceptional care programs.
Dr. Niti reminded followers, “Prevention is always superior to cure, and awareness is the first step toward empowering communities to take action against these health threats.” The collaborative approach among individuals, healthcare professionals, and the government is undeniably instrumental for effective disease management.
Looking to the future, the Ministry of Public Health remains committed to creating knowledge reservoirs, launching campaigns to educate the public, and solidifying community resilience against these health challenges, ensuring every Thai citizen has access to the health services they need to lead healthy lives.
Education, awareness, and accessibility play central roles in the ministry's proactive stance against outbreaks and diseases. The continued fight against tuberculosis, hepatitis B, and C reflects unwavering commitment to the health of the nation.
Only through mutual cooperation and engagement can success be anticipated, encouraging minority segments of society to access much-needed healthcare.