Warning of widespread influenza during rainy season
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Warning of widespread influenza during rainy season
13 Sept 12:17Key points summarised by AI
The Public Health Ministry warns of a rapid resurgence of respiratory diseases, including influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, during the rainy season, urging public caution.
Over 333,000 flu cases were recorded this year (up to May 19), with children aged 0-14 being the most affected, leading to 45,975 hospitalizations and 44 deaths, primarily among the elderly with comorbidities.
Cluster infections are increasing in crowded places like schools and prisons; schools are advised to suspend classes or isolate infected students to prevent further spread.
High-risk groups, including young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions, are strongly advised to wear masks, avoid crowded areas, and get vaccinated, with free vaccinations available at state hospitals.
Thailand's Education Ministry is implementing a four-pronged strategy to address its students' below-average performance in PISA 2025 and tackle significant educational inequality.
The plan prioritizes closing performance gaps by increasing funding for small and low-income schools, overhauling the curriculum to foster critical thinking, and adopting a data-driven management system to reduce teacher workload.
Key initiatives include enhancing school safety, combating cyberbullying, and expanding mental health support through peer-to-peer networks, recognizing the severe impact of distress on academic performance.
An education expert advises verifying if PISA improvements stem from structural changes, advocating for a revived STEM curriculum with practical 'learn by doing' methods, and urging bureaucratic reform to link teacher evaluations to student development.