BANGKOK, Thailand – People with flu or Covid-19 symptoms should rest, wear a mask and keep their distance, Thailand’s disease control agency warns.
The agency points to a higher risk of infection in crowded, poorly ventilated places. Sick people should especially avoid older adults, small children and the chronically ill.
Take fever, cough and fatigue seriously
Flu and Covid-19 can both cause fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, fatigue and shortness of breath. Early symptoms look similar.
Covid-19 can also knock out your sense of smell or taste. Those infected should steer clear of crowds and stay away from people at risk of severe illness.
Wear a mask and avoid contact
The agency advises sick people to put on a mask, avoid others and rest up. Anyone who has to leave the house should also mask up.
People in risk groups should see a doctor fast if they feel unwell. This cuts the chance of complications and deaths.
Danger in schools and care homes
Transmission spreads easier when people stay in close quarters for long periods or rooms have poor airflow. Schools, workplaces, elderly homes, prisons and medical facilities are vulnerable.
Public spaces should also keep air circulating. Clean rooms and frequently touched surfaces.
The rule: cover, wash, avoid, pause
Deputy director of the disease control agency Direk Khamphaen summed it up in four steps: cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, wear a mask in crowded places.
Wash hands regularly with soap and water. Avoid close contact with sick people. If you are sick, avoid close contact and get a medical checkup.
Check vaccination for risk groups
People at higher risk should ask medical staff if a flu shot makes sense for them. The agency urges everyone to monitor their health and practise good hygiene.
If unusually many people show symptoms, contact local health authorities to assess the situation and take action. The disease control hotline is 1422.