The Deputy Government Spokesperson revealed that the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, warns that the influenza situation in 2026 shows a higher trend of patients compared to last year and advises at-risk groups to get vaccinated promptly to protect themselves.
On 12 March 2026, Ms. Lalida Perdivattana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, warns that the influenza situation in 2026 shows a higher number of cases than last year. The public, especially at-risk groups, is advised to get vaccinated to reduce the severity and spread of the disease.
Ms. Lalida said that surveillance data from 1 January to 9 March 2026 showed 137,276 cases, an incidence rate of 211.48 per 100,000 population, with 8 reported deaths. The age groups with the most cases were 5-9 years, 0-4 years, and 10-14 years. Provinces with the highest incidence included Phayao, Phitsanulok, Chiang Mai, and Lamphun, with outbreaks mainly in communities and schools.
Regarding fatalities, most were elderly aged 60 and above and those with underlying conditions such as lung disease, heart disease, or immune deficiencies, who face higher risk of severe symptoms than other groups.
Ms. Lalida noted that in 2025, Thailand reported 1,194,342 influenza cases and 129 deaths. The 2026 situation shows an increase in cases due to the resumption of social activities and travel between areas.
The government requests public cooperation to prevent influenza by frequently washing hands, wearing masks, avoiding crowded places, and resting while avoiding close contact with others if experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, or runny nose symptoms.
"If symptoms include high fever, cough, shortness of breath, or if condition does not improve within 1-2 days, people should promptly see a doctor, especially those in at-risk groups such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with underlying diseases," she said.