The government warns during the summer to be cautious of foodborne and waterborne diseases and heatstroke, revealing 39,000 cases of food poisoning and 270,000 cases of diarrhea, advising hygiene care by eating thoroughly cooked, hot, and clean food.
On 29 March 2026, Ms. Airin Panrit, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that summer is a season when many diseases can easily occur, especially foodborne and waterborne diseases. The government advises the public to follow the principle of “thoroughly cooked, hot, and clean,” wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, choose to drink boiled water or bottled water with proper FDA marks and sealed caps, with packaging free of leaks. Also, select clean ice packaged without tears or leaks, bearing the FDA mark and the label “Ice for consumption.”
Ms. Airin said that foodborne and waterborne diseases during hot weather, according to data from 1 January to 17 March 2026, show a cumulative 39,233 food poisoning cases with no deaths reported, mostly children under five years old. In the past month (1–28 February 2026), there were 13,985 cases. For acute diarrhea from 1 January to 17 March 2026, there were 274,151 cases with two deaths, mostly children under five, and in the past month, 102,165 cases with one death.
Besides the common foodborne and waterborne diseases during summer, “heatstroke” or heat illness is another condition to watch out for, especially for outdoor workers and vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, those with chronic diseases, and alcohol drinkers. The government is concerned for the public’s health and urges cooperation in caring for oneself and family members to reduce risks of illness and potential losses.