BANGKOK, 12 September 2012 – The Public Health Ministry has instructed public health centers in eight provinces along the Chao Phraya River to prepare for incoming flood.
Public Health Minister Witthaya Buranasiri has reported that three public health centers in Ayutthaya and Sukhothai Provinces have already been flooded. He warned other health service centers in the provinces downstream of the Chao Phraya River to prepare for the incoming flood.
According to the minister, medical supplies and equipment should be moved up on higher ground. Medical personnel should also be ready to work in an emergency situation.
During September 9-10, the mobile medical units provided help to over 800 flood-affected patients, most of whom caught a cold, had a headache, or muscle pain; some were wounded by sharp objects in the water.
The ministry advised people that they should use plastic bags for toilet if they cannot find one, and close the bags before properly dispose of them to prevent germ spreading.
