The true extent of COVID-19 infections in Thailand, namely Bangkok, continues to be laid bare in yet another day of record-high case reporting – 60 just today, health officials announced just before 3pm.
Since Sunday, what had been a trickle of reports for over a month has become a larger wave each day as new infections are traced to unsurprising sources: the capital’s nightlife and entertainment venues.
At today’s briefing, officials said 52 cases have emerged since Saturday linked to the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium. Fifty-seven believed to have been contracted in entertainment venues have emerged in the past seven days.
Map of Thailand’s coronavirus infections to launch in new app
As of Wednesday, all such venues; as well as schools, gyms, spas and more; have been ordered to shut down through the end of the month. Thailand’s SET index on Thursday tumbled along with other Asian markets, down nearly 7 points to 1,041.44 with about an hour left to trade.
Still there remains a disconnect between emergent facts and ongoing spin: Despite acknowledging that 43 of the new cases involved people coming into contact with existing infections domestically, health officials still insist local transmission of the virus is “limited.” A bold claim when they also acknowledge their inability to determine the original patients that lit the fuse on these infection clusters.
One case was identified as a news reporter. Asked which agency they were with, a Health Ministry rep said he didn’t know and told those present to get tested if they had symptoms.
Related:
Map of Thailand’s coronavirus infections to launch in new app
All schools, bars, theaters, massage parlors and more must close in Bangkok
