BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has ordered intensified surveillance along the Thai-Myanmar border in Tak province to prevent the spread of cholera into Thailand, following the detection of three cases among Myanmar workers in Thailand’s Mae Sot, Dec 23.
The move comes after more than 300 Chinese and Myanmar nationals were infected with cholera in Myanmar’s Myawaddy province, with over 60 severe cases and two deaths reported in the Chinese Grey Zone area of Shwe Kokko.
“The Ministry of Defense, military, and Ministry of Public Health are collaborating to monitor the situation. We have implemented one-month strict border surveillance measures and are distributing protective equipment such as gloves and masks to maintain hygiene standards,” said Phumtham.
Other measures include public awareness campaigns to inform all parties about the dangers of cholera, and deploying teams to educate Myanmar workers and Thais in the border areas.
Three Myanmar workers in the Mae Sot municipality tested positive for cholera, with two already discharged from Mae Sot Hospital after recovery and one still receiving treatment. Disease investigation teams have been deployed to 20 communities in Mae Sot to trace infection routes and contain potential spread.
While the permanent border checkpoints at the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridges remain open, international disease control officials have intensified screening of suspicious cases. Authorities are also monitoring natural border crossing points in several districts.
Authorities believe the outbreak in Myanmar’s Chinese communities may be linked to unsanitary food practices. Concerns have also been raised about waste disposal in the Moei River, which forms the natural border between the two countries, potentially creating conditions conducive to disease spread. (TNA)
