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MINI EDITORIAL

Govt and public must not panic over flu threat

Although the Thai authorities have confirmed two cases of H1N1 influenza in the country, this news should not be a cause for panic. The public should carefully study available information from the Public Health Ministry and related agencies to prevent possible infection.



Although the two Thai victims were reported to have recovered from the virus, the authorities must still be vigilant in implementing measures to prevent the possible spread of the flu.

At the same time, members of the public must not jump to conclusions. We have already seen misunderstanding on the part of the public. For instance, when the H1N1 influenza first broke out, many people stopped eating pork, which adversely affected that sector of the food business.

The latest information shows that the influenza is still spreading in other countries, with the number of worldwide infections reaching the 5,000 mark. However, the Thai authorities have implemented precautionary measures, including the installation of equipment to check the temperatures of people arriving at the airports.

The Public Health Ministry has reacted to the threat promptly by carefully inspecting all visitors coming from countries where the infection has been verified. Although Thailand is now among 33 countries hit by the virus to date, the ministry has assured the public that it has taken the necessary precautions and will continue to provide updates on the latest information regarding the flu.

Straightforward and honest information at this time is crucial to prevent the further spread of the influenza. Both the government and the public have a responsibility to deal with the outbreak by remaining calm and understanding the nature of the threat and how to prevent it.



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