DDC says Phuket Covid cases remain mild despite surge

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has reported that Covid-19 cases in Phuket continue to be mild despite a recent surge in infections. The department noted that the variant currently responsible for the majority of cases in Thailand, the Omicron subvariant NB.1.8.1, accounts for 50.14% of all surveillance data collected. Phuket's case rate of 514.85 per 100,000 population ranks third highest nationwide, behind Bangkok's 643.65 and Chon Buri's 530.52.

Major tourist destinations and high population density are contributing factors to the higher case rate, as the DDC explained. Thailand's total case count during the period January 1 to August 31 was 99,691, with 15 deaths. Despite the increasing case numbers, health officials emphasized that the severity of illness caused by the dominant variant has not worsened.

Most patients are experiencing symptoms similar to a common cold or the flu, such as coughing, sore throat, runny nose, and fever. Dr Veerawat Manosutthi, a medical expert and spokesperson for the DDC, reassured the public that the emergence of new subvariants does not necessarily mean the disease has become more severe. The DDC advises people who develop symptoms to rest, monitor their condition, and avoid close contact with vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.

People who are sick are advised to avoid crowded places, wear a mask, and wash their hands frequently. The DDC reiterated that the public should continue their normal daily lives while taking reasonable precautions, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist for more than two days.