Songkhla, Thailand –
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has confirmed that 140 people have died in the catastrophic floods that struck Songkhla, with forensic teams verifying the identities of 104 victims so far. Thirty-six cases remain under examination, while 23 bodies have already been returned to families.
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Deputy Permanent Secretary Dr. Ekachai Piansriwatchara reported that fatalities include 65 deaths in hospitals and 75 outside medical facilities. Songklanagarind Hospital is serving as the central hub for forensic examinations, where 117 bodies are currently held.
Since November 25th, the Ministry has deployed 104 mobile medical units, known as Medical Emergency Response Teams (MERT), to flood-affected areas. These teams have provided care to more than 11,000 residents, including bedridden elderly patients and those in remote communities. Over the past week, 259 patients were transferred by land and 213 by air for urgent treatment.
In addition, 124 foot patrol teams of doctors, nurses, and village health volunteers have reached 78 communities, covering 75% of the affected areas and serving more than 10,000 people. Mental health teams (MCATT) have also assessed 3,800 residents, identifying 216 with severe stress and eight at risk of suicide. Immediate counseling and hospital referrals were arranged for those in critical need.
Officials urged residents to remain vigilant against post-flood diseases, particularly leptospirosis, which spreads through contaminated water and soil. Symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, and intense calf muscle pain. The Ministry advised anyone experiencing these signs to seek immediate medical attention at field hospitals or through mobile health teams.
Deputy Permanent Secretary Dr. Sakda Alphach confirmed that Hat Yai Hospital has begun phased restoration. Emergency rooms are reopening this week, with specialized and critical care services expected to expand in the coming days.
Damage to the hospital is estimated at 1 billion baht. His Royal Majesty the King has graciously granted 100 million baht to support urgent repairs, including water, electricity, waste treatment systems, and medical equipment.
Officials acknowledged delays in returning bodies to families due to the need for forensic verification of identity, cause of death, and personal details. Initially, forensic teams were unable to enter flooded areas, slowing the process. The Ministry has since dispatched forensic specialists, police investigators, and justice volunteers to expedite identification.
Dr. Sakda stated the importance of communicating “facts, not beliefs or feelings,” noting that accurate forensic work is critical to both family closure and official records.
As communities begin to recover and residents return home, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to comprehensive health support, from emergency care to mental health services. Authorities continue to monitor disease risks and provide guidance on household sanitation and personal protection.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
