For those of you who are wondering about what’s going on in Thailand, here is an unofficial status update: Things are not looking good.
It seemed that after two small outbreak waves since January 2020, Thailand would be ready to reopen the country for tourism again. Not so fast.
Starting in April, Thailand has experienced its biggest outbreak yet. Although it pales in comparison to larger countries, Thailand is now reporting a few thousand new cases per day. These cases are widespread throughout the country, but the urban centers like Bangkok and Chiang Mai are seeing the largest outbreaks.
All 77 provinces have now mandated mask-wearing policies when outside and violators could face stiff fines. In some areas, these mask policies apply even when driving in your car.
“Hospitels” – hotels converted into temporary hospitals, have been arranged to isolate asymptomatic and mild cases and quarantine close contacts and family members of confirmed cases.
A beloved Thai comedian just died. Sob stories of patients struggling to get care are popping up in the headlines. There is a sense of fear that was not felt in the previous waves. It feels closer to home. But as we see the struggles of nearby countries, Thailand knows that it could be worse.
As western countries start to relax their restrictions, thanks in part to their ambitious vaccine rollout campaigns, Thailand faces an uphill battle. For the countries facing violent resurgences, please keep their people in your thoughts.