Just as we’re tentatively removing our face masks while outdoors, the Thai government is back-pedalling from earlier concessions for people to wear their masks outside ‘voluntarily’. Even in Phuket, island officials are asking people to consider wearing their masks in public at this time.
Not so fast, officials say, as Covid infections are once more on the rise. Dr Taweesilp Visanuyothin from the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration is urging people to keep their face masks on after all, even at outdoor events.
“Even though the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration has lifted the mask mandate in several locations since last month, infections are rising, especially in Greater Bangkok and tourism provinces. It is believed that infections can spread from big cities to other provinces during the long holidays, when people travel upcountry to visit their relatives or travel to crowded tourist attractions.”
According to a Nation Thailand report, Taweesilp goes on to say that face masks should only be removed in properly-ventilated spaces, where social distancing is in operation. This applies in particular to people in high-risk groups and those who have yet to receive a booster dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.
“People at risk, like seniors, pregnant women, and persons who have not yet received a booster, should wear a face mask at all times when with others or in areas with poor ventilation. Masks don’t only protect you from Covid-19, but also prevent other respiratory diseases and pollutants.”
Today, Thailand has reported 1,795 new infections and 23 Covid-related deaths in the last 24 hour period. Total fatalities from the virus now stand at 30,958.
SOURCE: Nation Thailand
