Here is a look at the top NATIONAL stories, chosen by our Pattaya News/TPN National team, from last week, December 6th to the 12th, with some commentary. They are not in any particular level of importance but are listed in the order of date of publication.
1. First case of Omicron variant officially reported in Thailand, but had limited movement, Public Health Ministry says
The first known Omicron case was reported on Monday before three more cases were also detected within the week. The infection was a Thai-American businessman who had traveled from Spain and transferred in Dubai during his journey to Thailand. He was asymptomatic as of the press time and still under official care. All of the Omicron infections found in the country are unrelated so far.
2. PM2.5 air pollution to reach unhealthy level in Central Thailand throughout this week, including Bangkok, say authorities
Many parts of Thailand were facing the accumulation of PM2.5 dust particles last week. The situation of PM2.5 is an ongoing problem that often occurs annually between the end of the year and the beginning of the following year. Although the government had come up with tougher regulations and solutions, many residents continued to experience worsening health issues at the time of the year.
3. Masks with exhalation valves officially banned while traveling by aircraft in Thailand, CAAT reports
It is now official that no masks with valves are allowed to be worn on board while traveling to/in Thailand. Pilots, crew, and passengers using the service now refrain from using such masks to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus as the exhalation valves would allow the unfiltered breath to escape the mask, in line with the international standards. Only medical masks or cloth masks are allowed throughout the journey when entering the airports and in the aircraft.
Masks with exhalation valves officially banned while traveling by aircraft in Thailand, CAAT reports
And, that is all for this week. Thank you as always for reading the Pattaya News/TPN News!
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