Nearly 49,000 people in Thailand have been infected with dengue virus, 59 of whom died, Thai National News Bureau reported Friday.

Illustrative image. (Source: Internet)

According to Public Health Minister Pradit Sintavanarong, dengue situation in Thailand is still of concern given nearly 49, 000 people have so far been afflicted by the disease. 59 patients have died of dengue fever since the beginning of 2013, and more than half of the number were children.

The minister has, therefore, urged all hospitals to diagnose their patients carefully and thoroughly.

The minister has also urged related agencies nationwide to step up prevention measures, including cleaning all water containers and sewer drains, using mosquito-killer sprays, and eliminating all mosquito breeding grounds.

He has also warned those who experience flu, headache, or body ache, to consult a doctor immediately as they could be infected by the deadly dengue virus.

Source: Xinhuanet