Health
Thai minister refutes 92 billion baht foreign healthcare cost claim
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin addressed public concerns after the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reported that healthcare costs for foreign workers reached 92 billion baht last year. He clarified that the actual figure was closer to 2 billion baht. Somsak acknowledged that...
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Dengue cases projected to drop this year despite five recent deaths
The Department of Disease Control (DCC) announced it will continue to monitor dengue fever closely throughout the rainy season, with five fatalities reported in the past month. Hospitals are urged to expedite patient diagnosis, with projections suggesting a reduction in cases by 2025. Doctor Phanumart Yanawetsakul, DCC Director General under the Ministry of Public Health, …
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Blowing smoke: 12 year old girl fights for life after two years vaping
A 12 year old girl in Buriram is fighting for her life after vaping for two years, causing almost 100% damage to her lungs. Her family had no idea about her dangerous habit until they were informed by her school, highlighting the growing crisis of youth vaping in Thailand. The shocking revelation came when teachers …
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Chemotherapy is not that scary: Myths, facts, and how modern treatment make it easier
Getting a cancer diagnosis is scary enough. But for many, it’s what comes next that sparks even more fear: chemotherapy. The word alone might conjure up the familiar scenes you’ve seen in movies, usually a person staring at their reflection before tearfully shaving their head, their lives seemingly drained away. Pop culture often portrays chemotherapy …
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Thailand battles flu season as cases soar and fever pitch rises
Thailand is facing a major influenza outbreak, with 107,570 cases recorded this year and nine deaths, the Public Health Ministry confirmed yesterday, February 18. Flu infections are surging at 15,000 new cases per week, a sharp rise from the 10,000 per week reported in early 2024. Dr Jurai Wongsawat, spokesperson for the Department of Disease …
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Chaiyaphum prison hit hard as influenza cases soar past 1,000
Health officials in Chaiyaphum are sounding the alarm after influenza type A cases surged past 1,000, with more than 500 infections reported at the provincial male prison in Mueang district alone. Dr Suppapong Chaimongkol, head of preventive medicine at the Chaiyaphum Public Health Office, warned that children and inmates are the most affected, leading several …
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Khon Kaen fish dish linked to liver cancer risk
A recent article from the LADbible highlights a grave health concern in Khon Kaen province and the northeastern region of Thailand, where a popular dish can potentially lead to liver cancer if not prepared correctly. The dish, known as koi pla, consists of raw fish mixed with herbs, spices, and lime juice. Unfortunately, the raw …
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Influenza cases soar in Thailand, nearly 100,000 infected
Influenza cases in Thailand have surged, with nearly 100,000 infections and three deaths reported over the past 15 days. The Ministry of Public Health announced a significant rise in cases, particularly in schools, and is deploying 4.5 million doses of vaccines to combat the outbreak. Since January 1, there have been 99,057 confirmed influenza cases, …
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Urgent healthcare support needed in Thai refugee shelters
The Ministry of Public Health has been advised to enhance healthcare support in temporary shelters, incorporating permanent healthcare facilities and refugee health volunteers. Former chairperson of the subcommittee on ethnic human rights, Surapong Kongchantuk, emphasised the urgency of the situation following the US government’s withdrawal of support. Surapong, who has worked with stateless individuals, migrant …
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Butterbear helps patient overcome depression in Thailand
A patient’s journey in overcoming depression with the aid of a beloved character, Butterbear, has captured the nation’s attention. Depression remains a growing concern, and treatment typically involves medication, psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy, or other doctor-recommended methods. Consulting a doctor is crucial if depression is suspected, as medication or therapy benefits most patients. However, alternative emotional …
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This Valentine’s Day, protect your loved ones with comprehensive health insurance
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, care, and the bonds we share with those who matter most. This Valentine’s Day, show your love in a thoughtful and lasting way by choosing health insurance for your loved ones. Unlike chocolates or flowers, which bring short-term joy, health insurance offers long-term security and peace of …
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Meet Holina Rehab, the first rehab in Thailand approved for the new ‘International’ license by the Thai Ministry of Health
You probably don’t think of Koh Phangan when you think of rehab. The Thai island is known for its full moon parties, yoga retreats, and white-sand beaches. It’s not exactly the place you’d expect to rebuild your life. But that’s exactly what makes Holina Rehab so interesting. Located on a beachside resort with magnificent sunset …
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FDA allows colour in tea but urges caution with additives
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed that adding colour to tea is permissible, advising consumers to check for FDA approval on labels. They recommend against consuming multiple cups daily and suggest choosing teas with a natural appearance. Yesterday, February 10, Doctor Surachoke Tangwiwat, Secretary General of the FDA, addressed concerns about the use of …
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PM2.5 can lead to heart disease, Thai doctor warns
Doctor Supachai Rotkajornnapalai has raised alarms about the dangers of PM2.5 air pollution, emphasising its underestimated impact on heart health. The doctor shared a concerning case of a patient whose heart stopped despite not smoking, needing multiple medical interventions, including balloon angioplasty and defibrillation, to revive him. A 48 year old patient suffered cardiac arrest …
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Clean hotels with ‘3C’ initiative launches in Phuket
To ensure a safer travel experience, the Department of Medical Sciences is rolling out its ambitious Clean Hotels with 3C initiative across Thailand’s prime tourist spots. Deputy Director General Dr Ballang Uppong launched a crucial training session at the Royal Phuket City Hotel, aiding hotel operators in Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga. With over 250 …
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Thai FDA assures public on Coca-Cola recall safety
The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clarified concerns regarding Coca-Cola’s recall of soft drinks in Europe due to excessive chlorate levels. The FDA assured that the affected batches from Belgium have not been imported into Thailand, with most imported soft drinks originating from ASEAN countries like Laos and Singapore, which are not involved in …
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You should start using air purifiers in Thailand
When air purifiers first started getting mainstream attention, especially after hearing about them more often during the Covid-19 pandemic, I always thought of them as some sort of massive marketing by big corporations to push their product agenda. However, upon researching air purifiers and understanding the reasons for using an air purifier, I discovered that …
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NHSO adds six medications to national health insurance scheme
The National Health Security Office (NHSO) board approved the addition of six medications to the national health insurance system yesterday, February 3. This initiative aims to ensure patients have comprehensive access to essential treatments, particularly for tuberculosis, nephritis, and lymphoma. The decision follows approval from various subcommittees and aligns with recommendations from the World Health …
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How to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses in Thailand?
Managing medical expenses in Thailand is important as healthcare costs continue to rise. The country’s healthcare system includes both public and private options, but even with the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) for citizens, many still face high out-of-pocket medical expenses. This guide offers practical tips to help reduce these expenses, such as choosing the right …
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Rabies panic: Khon Kaen officials say cooked beef is safe
Health officials in Sam Sung district, Khon Kaen moved to calm public fears after reports of rabies-infected beef sparked concerns about food safety. While a cow infected with rabies was slaughtered and consumed earlier this month, officials have clarified that properly cooked beef remains safe to eat. The outbreak began on January 23, when a …
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5 hidden healthcare costs in Thailand and how to avoid them
Thailand’s healthcare system is affordable and supported by the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme, offering essential services to most citizens. However, hidden healthcare costs can surprise patients and lead to unexpected expenses. These include specialist fees, insurance gaps, emergency services, and overpriced medications. This article highlights five hidden healthcare costs in Thailand and shares simple …
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Thai FDA approves kratom use for health and economic benefits
The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of kratom plant products for economic and health benefits. The regulations now permit mitragynine, an active compound in kratom leaves, to be used up to 3 milligrammes (mg) per day, with appropriate warnings on product labels. Dr Witit Srisa-atchachakul, the Deputy Secretary-General of the …
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62 students suffer food poisoning at Koh Samui school camp
Sixty-two students from Theeparatpittaya School on Koh Samui experienced food poisoning symptoms, prompting urgent medical attention. The incident occurred yesterday, January 24, when students attending a scout camp began suffering from severe abdominal pain after consuming boxed meals. The Narenthorn Ao Thai Centre at Koh Samui Hospital was notified of the situation and quickly coordinated with …
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Why you need to wear a mask in Bangkok right now
As anyone who has spent time in Thailand, or other Asian cultures for that matter, I’m sure you have seen people wearing masks while in public in Bangkok. But why? The scare of Covid-19 has now long lost its saliency and fears among the general public have been diminished to a level comparable to a …
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How much is Thai health insurance?
Health insurance in Thailand is essential for expats and locals, providing financial protection and access to quality care. Costs depend on age, health, and coverage level, with basic plans being cheaper but limited and comprehensive plans offering more benefits at a higher price. Regardless, getting Thai health insurance has its costs and it’s good to …
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Toxic air crisis: 70 provinces choked by dangerous dust levels
Thailand woke up to alarming air quality today, with ultrafine dust particles (PM2.5) reaching hazardous levels in 70 of 77 provinces, and Greater Bangkok bearing the brunt of the toxic haze. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) revealed that PM2.5 levels surged into the red, or hazardous-to-health, zone in 27 provinces, primarily in …
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Thai tea brand launches bird’s nest drink for Chinese tourists
Napit Sasiwimolkul, the marketing director of Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., highlighted the continued focus on health among consumers. According to Eastern beliefs, particularly in China, bird’s nest is considered to have cooling properties. With Thailand’s tourism sector showing signs of recovery, data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports reveals that 35,545,714 …
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What to do in a medical emergency as an expat in Thailand
Handling a medical emergency in Thailand as an expat can be difficult without the right information. This guide explains what to do in a medical emergency, including important contact numbers, the differences between public and private hospitals, how to deal with language barriers, and why health insurance is essential. Knowing these steps can help expats …
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The safety and quality of dental treatments in Thailand
“Is it safe to get dental treatment in Thailand?” is perhaps one of the most frequently asked questions among those planning to seek dental care in the country. It’s a valid question. You’re travelling across the world because you’ve heard that millions of people are doing it to get affordable yet high-quality dental care, so …
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Korat calls for urgent donations amid major blood shortage
Residents across northeastern Thailand are being encouraged to donate blood to address a significant shortage, as highlighted by officials at Regional Blood Centre V. Hospitals in regions such as Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Buriram, and Surin are currently receiving only 30 to 40% of their required blood supply, according to Sirilak Piakkhunthod, head of the blood …
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Thai FDA warns against deadly vape liquid mixed with ketamine
The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the dangers of Pot K, a vape liquid mixed with ketamine, which can be fatal. Selling this substance can lead to a prison sentence of up to 15 years and a fine of 1.5 million baht. This illegal product has become prevalent among nightlife …
