SONGKHLA, Thailand – The Army Medical Emergency Response Team (M-MERT) of the 3rd Army Area has deployed foot-patrol medical units to communities affected by flooding in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, to provide comprehensive physical and mental health support to residents.
The teams, comprising medical personnel from Chiraprawat Camp Hospital, Somdej Phranaresuan Maharaj Camp Hospital, and Fort Pichai Dab Hak Hospital, assessed stress levels, anxiety, and the emotional impacts experienced by affected individuals. They provided individual counselling, stress-relief support, and follow-up care for high-risk groups, including older persons, children, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those directly exposed to traumatic events.
In addition to mental health support, the foot-patrol medical units delivered close medical care in flood-affected communities. Services included treatment for skin conditions, immersion foot, and common post-flood infectious diseases such as leptospirosis and respiratory illnesses. The teams also provided wound care, attended to chronic patients who had been unable to access regular medication, and offered hygiene guidance to help prevent disease outbreaks during the recovery period.
Screening for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was also conducted to ensure continuous monitoring of residents’ mental well-being. The teams distributed basic medicines and essential supplies to help alleviate hardship and provide comprehensive care for both physical and mental health needs across the affected communities. (NNT)
