Here is a look at the top NATIONAL stories, chosen by our Pattaya News/TPN National team, from last week, April 19th to the 25th, with some commentary. They are not in any particular level of importance but are listed in the order of date of publication.
PHOTO: Thairath
1. Thailand’s National Vaccine Institute in talks with Pfizer Company regarding possible distribution of Covid-19 shots in Thailand, says Prime Minister
The Prime Minister stated last week that Thailand is now in a potential negotiation with Pfizer Company regarding its Covid-19 vaccination in Thailand. The first lot is estimated to be around 5-10 million doses and is now in discussion for the earliest delivery. According to the Public Health Minister, Pfizer had initially agreed to deliver its vaccines as early as the end of the year but the government is requesting the delivery acceleration due to the reoccurrence of Thailand’s third outbreak from entertainment venues.
2. Thai Prime Minister gives full authority to provincial governors for curfews, tougher restrictions to control Covid-19
Provincial governors were given authorities to institute curfews and other measures, including travel restrictions, closure of businesses, etc., to control the current Covid-19 breakout in their provinces. This week, more than 50 provinces nationwide, including Bangkok and Chonburi, had implemented an outdoor mask mandate with up to a 20,000 baht fine for violating. Some provinces have also implemented a soft curfew, asking local residents not to leave their residential areas in the nighttime.
3. Bangkok tightens Covid-19 restrictions and closes many more venues and places for at least two weeks
Bangkok authorities have approved more tightening measures to control the spread of Covid-19 in the capital, primarily including the closure of entertainment complexes such as cinemas, theaters, water parks, zoos, skating fields, gaming cafes, bowling venues, etc. The restrictions will initially be in effect for at least 14 days, until May 9th. Meanwhile, the governor will closely monitor the situation and further consider whether to extend or revoke the restrictions.
Bangkok tightens Covid-19 restrictions and closes many more venues and places for at least two weeks
4. Sputnik V and Moderna vaccines now officially in process of registration with Thai FDA for official allocation in Thailand
Two more vaccine manufacturers, through local distributors in Thailand, are preparing for registration approval by the Thai FDA. Both companies are at the early stage of preparing the registration application information, according to the FDA secretary-general. It is not yet mentioned by the authorities how long would it take for the FDA consideration nor the exact deadline for the approval, but the registrations somewhat look promising for the allocation in the country.
And, that is all for this week. Thank you as always for reading the Pattaya News/TPN News!
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