BANGKOK – Thailand’s COVID-19 situation continues to worsen, with health authorities reporting 31,688 new infections between May 11 and 17, extending an 11-week upward trend in cases. The latest figures have sparked concerns about potential underreporting and renewed calls for public vigilance.

Resurgence of covid in Thailand no cause for alarm

Dr. Thira Woratanarat, a prominent epidemiologist from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Medicine, cautioned that official numbers may not reflect the true scale of infections. He pointed to recent data revisions as evidence: initial reports for the 19th week showed 16,000 cases and six deaths, but updated figures later revealed 30,919 cases and nine fatalities.

Given this pattern, Dr. Thira warned that the 31,688 cases reported for the most recent week could rise significantly as additional data is processed. Many mild or asymptomatic cases go unrecorded, particularly among those who self-test at home or avoid hospitals.

⚠️ BREAKING:

New COVID-19 Wave Hits Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand Amid Surge in Cases.

Covid-19 has quietly re-emerged as a growing concern in parts of Asia, notably Hong Kong, Singapore, China and Thailand, with a sharp rise in infections and severe cases. pic.twitter.com/VMg1mfMyId

— SARS‑CoV‑2 (COVID-19) (@COVID19_disease) May 19, 2025

With the virus spreading steadily, Dr. Thira emphasized the importance of mask-wearing in crowded indoor spaces, including public transport, malls, and markets. He also advised avoiding close contact with individuals displaying respiratory symptoms, such as coughing or sneezing.

While infections are projected to continue rising for several more months before eventually declining, health experts stress that community cooperation remains critical to mitigating the outbreak.

“This is not the time to let our guard down,” Dr. Thira said. “Preventive measures can still make a difference.”

‘Serious’ aviation incidents soar after covid outbreak in Thailand

Health officials are monitoring the situation closely, but with testing and reporting gaps, the true toll of this wave may remain unclear.

-Thailand News (TN)