Thailand continues to see a surge in COVID-19 cases, with 53,563 new infections and five deaths recorded between May 18 and 24, according to the Department of Disease Control (DDC). Of these cases, 50,736 were treated as outpatients, while 2,827 required hospitalisation.
Since January 2025, the cumulative number of COVID-19 cases has reached 186,955, with 46 reported deaths.
Bangkok recorded the highest number of new cases during the latest reporting period, with 9,539, followed by Chonburi (3,379), Samut Prakan (2,491), Nonthaburi (2,278), and Rayong (2,210).
The DDC noted that case numbers tend to rise during the rainy season and school term, with transmission commonly occurring in crowded places such as public transport, schools, hospitals, and elderly care centres.
Authorities are urging the public to take basic preventive measures, including wearing a mask when experiencing fever or cough, avoiding close contact with individuals showing respiratory symptoms, washing hands frequently, and using ATK tests if infection is suspected.
Those who test positive are advised to seek medical attention immediately to avoid transmitting the virus to vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.
The Department of Medical Sciences (DMSC) confirmed that the JN.1 variant remains the dominant strain in the country, accounting for 63.92% of sequenced cases. Although its severity has declined, the strain continues to spread rapidly.
Dr Atthaporn Limpanyalert, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Health Security Office (NHSO), stated that COVID-19 care has now been fully integrated into Thailand’s public healthcare system.
Individuals under the 30-baht universal healthcare scheme are eligible to receive treatment at any primary healthcare facility free of charge. Those with severe symptoms should seek treatment at hospitals covered under their entitlement.
For patients with mild or no symptoms, the NHSO has partnered with local pharmacies displaying the “30-baht treatment anywhere” or “my quality pharmacy” signs, where consultations and medication are available.
Telemedicine services are also available through three platforms: Clicknic (Line: @clicknic), Mordee (Line: @mordeeapp), and Saluber MD (Line: @smdthailand).
In response to rising infections, Ratwinit Bangkaeo School in Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan, has announced a temporary shift to online learning from May 26 to 28 as a precautionary measure to protect students’ health.
