No need for panic: Covid cases on the rise again
Fresh Take: Don't Fret, Covid-19 Remains Manageable in Thailand, Minister Says
Thailand's Public Health Minister, Somsak Thepsutin, wants to quell public fears about a potential Covid-19 comeback within the country. He reiterated that the disease is now officially classified as endemic.
Despite a persistently high caseload, the virus predominantly induces mild symptoms according to the minister. Statistics show that from January 1 to May 10, Thailand has reported 53,676 Covid-19 cases and 16 deaths.
The capital, Bangkok, experienced the highest infections at 16,723 cases, reaching a peak during the week of April 27 to May 3, with 14,349 cases and two deaths. Other provinces with substantial case counts include Chon Buri (1,177), Nonthaburi (866), and Rayong (553).
Infections dropped to 12,543 during the week of May 4–10. Somsak attributes the elevated infection rates to seasonal factors and large gatherings. "Covid-19 has transformed into a year-round endemic disease," he explained. "Although it's still quite contagious, its potential harm has significantly dwindled."
He urged the populace to avoid panic but emphasized the importance of staying watchful and adhering to public health guidelines such as mask-wearing.
Somsak also outlined the appropriate response if Covid-19 symptoms arise. This includes immediate testing using an ATK kit once symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, or fatigue manifest. If the test result is positive, infected individuals must isolate themselves, don masks, steer clear of others, particularly elderly people, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic diseases.
People suffering from severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, Somsak advised.
According hospitalization data since the start of 2025, 41,197 people have been hospitalized due to Covid-19, with 15 deaths primarily among individuals aged 60 and above. The recent infections can be linked to seasonal factors and large gatherings serving as contributors to the case numbers.
The overall picture in Thailand is that Covid-19 remains prevalent but manageable, with ongoing vigilance and cautious public health behaviors being the key to the ongoing fight against the virus.
- 'In Bangkok, a significant number of COVID-19 cases have been reported, reaching a peak recently with 14,349 cases and two deaths, according to the minister.'
- 'Somsak, the Public Health Minister, emphasized that COVID-19 symptoms in Thailand predominantly remain mild, with the disease now officially classified as endemic.'
- 'Health-and-wellness professionals urge individuals to follow public health guidelines, especially during high caseload periods, to help manage the ongoing presence of COVID-19 in Thailand.'
