Dengue Fever in Thailand: Over 100,000 Cases Reported Two Years in a Row – Why You Need to Protect Yourself Now

As the rainy season in Thailand returns, so does the serious threat of dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness that has surged dramatically in recent years. With over 100,000 infections reported annually for two consecutive years, Thailand is experiencing one of its most significant public health challenges yet.

At Ticy City, we’re committed to spreading awareness and encouraging prevention — and that includes promoting the dengue vaccine, which is now more critical than ever.

Dengue Fever: A Growing Public Health Concern in Thailand

According to the Department of Disease Control, 2024 saw a shocking 105,250 confirmed dengue cases and more than 100 deaths. The culprit? The Aedes mosquito, which thrives during the wet season and bites both day and night — a fact many people still misunderstand.

If you thought dengue fever only spreads at night, think again. These aggressive mosquitoes are active 24/7, making constant prevention measures essential.

What Is Dengue Fever and How Does It Spread?

Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which includes four different strains: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. The virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. It does not spread directly from person to person.

Once bitten, symptoms may appear after an incubation period of 3–7 days, and the illness progresses through three stages:

1. Febrile Phase

High fever (above 38.5°C), rash, headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and vomiting. This stage typically lasts 3–7 days.

2. Critical Phase

Usually occurring around days 5–7, this phase is marked by a sudden drop in fever, dangerously low platelets, and risk of shock or severe internal bleeding. It is the most life-threatening stage.

3. Recovery Phase

Within 24–48 hours, the patient starts to regain strength as symptoms ease. However, medical supervision is often still required.

Why a Second Dengue Infection Can Be More Severe

Many people are unaware that getting dengue more than once is possible — and often more dangerous. Because the body only builds long-term immunity to the strain it was first infected with, a second infection with a different strain can trigger a severe immune reaction known as Antibody-Dependent Enhancement (ADE).

This can lead to more serious dengue symptoms like:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Uncontrollable vomiting
• Dehydration
• Blood plasma leakage
• Life-threatening shock

Dengue Vaccine in Thailand: Your Best Line of Defense

Fortunately, dengue vaccination in Thailand is now available and widely recommended. The Qdenga vaccine is a live-attenuated vaccine that protects against all four dengue strains. It is administered in two doses, three months apart.

Vaccine Benefits:

• 80% protection against dengue infection
• 90% reduction in the risk of severe symptoms and dengue-related complications
• Suitable for individuals ages 4 to 60, including those who’ve never had dengue

The vaccine is not recommended for people with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, HIV patients, or pregnant/breastfeeding women.

How to Prevent Dengue Fever

If you’re wondering how to prevent dengue fever, here are effective measures to protect yourself and your family:

• Eliminate standing water to prevent mosquito breeding
• Sleep under mosquito nets, especially for children
• Use mosquito repellents during the day and night
• Wear long-sleeved clothing
• Get vaccinated for long-term protection

While avoiding bites is important, mosquitoes can be hard to avoid completely — making vaccination the most effective long-term strategy.

Dengue Treatment: What to Do If You’re Infected

There is currently no antiviral medication to cure dengue. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:

• Take fever-reducing medications (avoid aspirin and NSAIDs)
• Use cold compresses
• Drink oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration

If symptoms worsen or reach the critical phase, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Rainy Season = Dengue Season

In Thailand, the rainy season creates the perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes. More mosquitoes mean higher infection rates. Don’t wait until symptoms strike. The best defense is early dengue prevention and vaccination.

Final Thoughts from Ticy City

Dengue fever in Thailand is a serious, preventable illness. With cases climbing year after year, we urge everyone — especially families with young children — to take action. Eliminate mosquito risks at home and schedule your dengue vaccine as early as possible.

Because when it comes to protecting your health, prevention isn’t just smart — it’s lifesaving.

Source: Vimut Hospital
For more information, call 02-079-0030 or download the ViMUT App