Thailand faces a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, with infections expected to peak in July, according to Dr. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, chief of Thailand's Disease Control Department. The country reported 3,256 hospital admissions and 16 fatalities between June 23rd and 29th, highlighting an alarming rise in cases.
Out of these recent hospital admissions, 709 patients suffered from severe lung infections, and 336 required ventilators. Since the start of the year, Thailand has seen a total of 31,205 COVID-19 hospital admissions, resulting in 172 deaths, predominantly among those over the age of 69.
The Disease Control Department has issued renewed guidelines for those most at risk. Individuals over 60, those with pre-existing health conditions, and pregnant women are advised to take stringent preventive measures.
These include wearing face masks in crowded settings, frequent hand washing with soap or alcohol-based hand sanitiser, and undergoing rapid antigen tests if COVID-19 symptoms emerge. Positive cases should consult a doctor for appropriate treatment and avoid contact with vulnerable populations.
Dr. Apichart Wachiraphan, deputy director-general of the Disease Control Department, compared the current surge in COVID-19 infections to patterns seen with seasonal flu, often tied to crowded gatherings and activities.
He noted that while cases are expected to peak in July, the current fatality rate stands at 0.04%. This is a significant reduction from the 2.16% fatality rate recorded in June 2021, reflecting advancements in treatment and vaccination efforts.
As Thailand braces for the peak, health officials continue to stress the importance of adhering to preventive measures to mitigate the spread and reduce the impact on the healthcare system.
File photo courtesy: Depositphotos
-- 2024-07-04
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