An actor, model and Muay Thai boxer became the latest public figure Friday to come out and announce they have been infected with the coronavirus.
As the Thai public simmers with doubts about the quality of public information on the outbreak, celeb Matthew Deane Chanthavanij announced on social media that he was ill and urged anyone who has come into contact with him to be aware.
“I’m Matthew, I want to inform everyone, especially people who have close contact with me, that I have COVID-19,” Matthew announced on Instagram.
Thailand contradicts, flip-flops, sugarcoats COVID-19 as public teeters on pandemic panic
The post received quickly garnered attention, including more than 333,000 likes and nearly 4,000 comments of largely positive and appreciative support.
“Take care na my loveeeeee — rest, drink liquids, u will get pass this. Sending my love naaaaaaaa,” wrote actress and model Amy Klinpratoom.
Matthew’s boxing camp Khongsittha Muay Thai, located in Lat Phrao area, announced last night that the venue is closed today for cleaning and disinfection.
The public has responded very favorably to transparent information compared to that from public health officials, who have at times delayed disclosures and refuse to detail where sick people have visited or even become infected.
Earlier this week, a Singaporean restaurant owner publicized on Facebook that he had been infected with the virus to wide public praise.
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