Phuket–
Bangkok Siriroj Hospital in Phuket has issued a formal statement refuting viral social media claims that seven Indian nationals were infected with the Nipah virus and placed in quarantine at the facility.
The rumor, which circulated widely among Phuket residents online over the past weekend, alleged that hospital staff had warned of confirmed cases and urged the public to wear masks and disinfect vehicles. The claims quickly sparked heated debate, with some netizens calling on authorities to suspend travel from India amid fears of a repeat of the COVID-19 lockdowns that devastated the island’s economy.
Concerns centered on the possibility of another citywide shutdown, which during the pandemic forced businesses to close and residents to endure severe financial hardship.
In response, Bangkok Siriroj Hospital clarified. “At present, no patients infected with the Nipah virus have been admitted to Bangkok Siriroj Hospital. The hospital continues to conduct strict screening and surveillance in line with medical standards to ensure the safety of all patients and staff.”
The hospital’s statement wants to reassure the public and counter misinformation at a time when Phuket’s tourism sector is still recovering from the impact of COVID-19.
The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.
