I contracted the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) on my trip to Thailand in 2013. It could have been at an airport en route, on a flight or even back in the USA just before I left. There had been some cases in the Northeastern USA not long before departure. Who knows? All I can say is that on my third or forth day in Bangkok, I developed a pretty serious fever. Kade was with me, and we were both alert to this. Not even two hours passed before we went to a local hospital (Phaya Thai 2), where I was evaluated and diagnosed. I was placed on some anti-viral meds and antibiotics. I was told to wear a mask and stay away from the general public until the major symptoms disappeared. For at least a week I was in the bed. Luckily, I had the best nurse - Kade! She brought warm comfort foods and plenty of fruits. I slept a lot, and watched some cable TV. I could tell fairly early that the anti-virals were kicking in; I was feeling better. After two weeks, I felt like venturing out. But when I went out on the town, I always wore my mask. In the 13 or so years of both living in Thailand or taking trips over there, it was the only time I had been seriously sick. The care I got over there was excellent. And when I returned to the USA and saw my family doctor, I shared the report the Bangkok hospital gave me, and put out all the prescription meds to show. My doctor said I got highest standard of care (at Phyathai 2 International Hospital), and was given the same medication and treatment that I would have received in the USA.
On a single day, Kade brought in all these fruits: guava, rose apple, pineapple, pomelo, papaya and mangosteen. Sometimes it pays to be sick!!
Once I got the green-light to do normal activities, a former student-turned friend of mine came by to visit. In fact, she is a bonafide nurse. She brought along some higher quality masks and some over-the-counter treatments. Really meant a lot.
I was going to take a solo trip to Japan (from Bangkok) this trip, but the virus put an end to that plan.,
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