The Deputy Prime Minister, Wissanu Krea-ngam, has today warned the public to be more cautious following photos of crowded BTS stations and packed supermarkets that emerged over the past few days.
The Deputy PM was responding to concerns raised by the Public Health Ministry over public carelessness potentially leading to a stronger second wave of coronavirus.
The Ministry referenced the mass exodus over the long weekend as people flocked back to their home provinces, in addition to crowded supermarkets the morning after the alcohol ban was lifted.
They expressed concern that the actions taken over the past few days will show in official coronavirus figures in two weeks’ time, prompting an increase in the number of cases.
Wissanu Krea-ngam said that after 14 days the government will consult with medical experts and assess the situation to see if reacting strict lockdown measures is necessary.
The Deputy Prime Minister said:
“Responsible organizations are evaluating the situation. If the outbreak starts again, all shopping malls and other venues must be closed. However, if any place cannot follow the Public Health Ministry’s measures, the government will shut it down immediately.”
The Public Health Ministry is closely monitoring four warning signs of a second outbreak, including:
- Investigating respiratory illnesses to discover the cause.
- Monitoring the percentage of people who catch covid-19.
- Closely monitoring public behavior to ensure they are abiding by the national and local regulations including wearing face masks, washing hands, and social distancing.
- Monitoring the number of patients that could increase coronavirus figures.
Source: The Nation
