Thailand, Myanmar join forces against deadly diseases

BANGKOK, July 3 (TNA) - Thailand and Myanmar have joined hands to implement measures against communicable and deadly diseases in areas along their common border, namely dengue fever, malaria, diarrhea or AIDS. Dr. Suriya Kuharat, chief of public health office in Thailand's southern Ranong province, bordering Myanmar, told journalists on Wednesday that, as part of the agreed cooperation, Myanmar has sent at least two child patients from its Kawthaung Township who were infected with dengue fever to hospitals in Ranong. Dr. Suriya acknowledged that Kawthaung Township has been seriously hit by dengue fever outbreaks, with initial reports indicating five Myanmar patients having died from the disease. The top provincial health official confirmed that the Thai-Myanmar cooperation also covers other deadly diseases, including malaria, diarrhea or AIDS. There are three permanent border passes and more than 50 other natural border links between Ranong and Myanmar's Kawthaung Township regularly facilitating cross-border travels of thousands of people, tourists and even migrant workers. (TNA)