Gold health card holders in areas affected by flooding in Thailand are entitled to medical treatment at all state hospitals, including those at which they are not registered, Deputy Government Spokesperson Rachada Dhnadirek said today (Saturday).

She said that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has instructed all state hospitals and the National Health Security Office (NHSO) to take care of gold card holders in flooded areas, to ensure that they continue to receive free medical services if they fall sick.

For those who suffer from chronic conditions, such as chronic kidney disease and need dialysis or radiation treatment, she said that the local NHSO offices will coordinate with local hospitals to arrange for ambulances to pick up the patients and take them to hospital for treatment.

The NHSO has opened the 1330 hotline to receive calls around the clock for those who need health services or consultations.

Meanwhile, Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong, acting director-general of Disease Control Department, advised people living in flooded areas to be on the lookout for snakes or poisonous insects, such as centipedes and scorpions, which may be taking refuge from the floods in their houses.

He disclosed that more than 7,000 people were bitten by snakes last year and most of the incidents took place in the hot and rainy seasons.

As a precaution against snake and insect bites, he suggested that they check their beds and move them off the ground floor, check their shoes or clothes before putting them on and wear boots every time they venture into their backyard or garden.