Update on COVID-19 in Thailand: 02 May 2024

Since March 2024, data reported by the Ministry of Public Health on a weekly basis indicates that hospital admissions due to COVID-19 have been increasing. More recently, the increase has been more significant – with the latest information showing 1672 new admissions and 9 deaths in the week prior, with 390 seriously unwell patients of which 148 required mechanical ventilation in hospitals on 27 April.   There is no evidence that current COVID-19 strains cause higher levels of illness; instead, the upsurge in Thailand is likely due to higher transmissibility of currently circulating virus strains and lower adherence of people to personal protective measures, including during Songkran festivities. A significant minority of people in Thailand also remain either unvaccinated or are incompletely vaccinated.

What is the current situation with COVID-19 variants in Thailand?

The dominant COVID-19 strain in Thailand and in most other countries is known as JN.1. Based on current evidence, tests, treatment, and vaccines all continue to work with this strain, as with previous variants

What can individuals do to protect infection against COVID-19?

In the current situation, at risk individuals and their families may consider the regular use of personal protective measures including masks, cough etiquette and handwashing. Any unvaccinated ’at risk’ individuals who are concerned about the current situation should seek advice from a medical practitioner. If individuals are unsure whether they might need a booster vaccine, they should also seek guidance from a health professional

What should I do if I think I might be infected with COVID-19?

Anyone who develops symptoms of COVID-19, especially if they have risk factors of severe illness should get tested to confirm the diagnosis and should seek medical care if the test is positive, so that appropriate decisions can be made about treatment and case management.