Thailand braces for dengue fever

BANGKOK, May 19 (TNA) - Hospitals around Thailand are on alert for dengue fever, which has already affected more than 2,000 people. Sophon Mekthon, deputy permanent secretary for public health said 36 people have died from the disease during the period from January 1 to May 15 this year, more than half of them are children and youth. Dr. Sophon said over 30,000 cases of dengue fever have so far been confirmed during the period as monsoon season has started. Meanwhile, the public health ministry will hold talks with senior interior and education officials on May 28 on ways to curb the outbreak. (TNA)