BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, in partnership with Kao and Takeda, has launched a regional campaign titled “ASEAN United: Zero Dengue Deaths — A Future We Build Together.” The initiative aims to drive innovation and collaboration in preventing dengue-related deaths across Southeast Asia.
Thailand, with the support of Japanese partners, will host ASEAN Dengue Day 2025 under this theme, reflecting its commitment to ending preventable deaths through four key strategies: improved disease surveillance, mosquito control, early diagnosis, and effective risk communication.
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin emphasized that dengue fever remains a serious public health issue in Thailand and throughout ASEAN. He noted that June 15 has been designated ASEAN Dengue Day to raise awareness each year. Despite ongoing national efforts, long-term solutions require strong partnerships between governments, the private sector, and civil society across the region.
During a panel discussion, experts stressed the importance of recognizing early symptoms and taking prompt action. Individuals experiencing a high fever for more than two days should seek immediate medical care. They also warned against self-medicating with aspirin or NSAIDs, which can increase the risk of fatal bleeding in dengue cases.
According to the Department of Disease Control, Thailand has reported between 45,000 and 150,000 dengue cases annually over the past three years, with 29 to 181 deaths each year. So far in 2025 (as of June 4), 13,000 cases and 15 deaths have been reported.
The campaign underscores a united regional vision: to protect lives by eliminating preventable deaths from dengue across ASEAN. (NNT)
