Thai health authorities keep close watch on new H3N2 flu

BANGKOK, February 7 (TNA) - The Thai Ministry of Public Health is watching out for any possible outbreak of a new strain of influenza virus called “Human H3N2 – Swine Origin Influenza Virus”, which has been discovered in the United States, although the new virus has not yet been detected in the country so far. Officials of the ministry's Department of Medical Sciences confirmed Tuesday that the new flu strain, H3N2, has not yet been found in Thailand. The Thai health authorities, however, warned local people to take good care of their health as weather is changing. Dr. Boonchai Somboonsuk, Director-General of the Department of Medical Sciences, insisted that people should take good care of their health as they may be vulnerable to cold, influenza and pneumonia while the weather is changing. Dr. Boonchai especially directed his warning to vulnerable groups, including the elderly aged 65 and over, those with chronic illnesses, children aged under two, children depending on aspirin for a long time and women who have been pregnant for at least 12 weeks. The senior Thai health official also recommended influenza vaccinations for general people aged more than six months and people in risk groups, such as those aged at least 65 with chronic illnesses and medical personnel, cautioning that those who may be allergic to vaccines should consult with doctors. (TNA)