National –
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior told all provincial governors to be rigid about enforcement of Covid-19 restrictions in their responsible provinces and prepare for a post-Songkran possible surge of Covid-19.
Today, April 9th, Mr. Suthipong Julcharoen the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior as a chief coordinator of provincial and Bangkok governors and mayors made an official announcement that there was a high chance of a surge in Covid-19 patients as from April 11th, lots of citizens would begin to travel back to their hometown to celebrate the Thai New Year/Songkran/Water festival.
Therefore, he urged all provincial governors to be strict about preventive Covid-19 restrictions during the festival in accordance with the Ministry of Public Health’s measures. Events relevant to gatherings such as concerts, celebrations, traditional arrays, and ceremonies need to receive local authority’s permission prior to starting, and alcohol, foam parties, public water splashing, and powder playing are strictly prohibited. Also, airports, bus stations, train stations, restaurants, converted restaurants (former bars), and tourist spots will be closely monitored according to the officials.
“Event organizers must conduct a self-evaluation through the Thai Stop COVID 2 Plus website, and those who want to hold an activity in their local area must notify the responsible authorities in their area first” Mr. Suthipong said.
Also, Mr. Suthipong suggested the “Universal Prevention” methods to avoid Covid-19 which included:
1) Only leave the house when necessary
2) Maintain social-distance
3) Wear double masks
4) Wash hands frequently
5) Do not touch your face
6) Vulnerable groups should remain home
7) Disinfect frequently touched surfaces
8) Separately use personal items
9) Eat fully cooked food and use a personal serving spoon
10) Test with ATK immediately when having symptoms
As for post-Songkran measures, Mr. Suthipong adviced citizens to observe for Covid-19 symptoms for at least 7 to 10 days and try to work from home if possible. All citizens are encouraged to alert authorities for any violation of the regulations by phoning 1567 (24 hours a day).
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