Thailand’s top virologist predicts surge in Omicron infections soon
A security guard wearing a face mask stands beside equipment to check passengers’ temperatures at a BTS skytrain station in Bangkok on December 6, 2021 as Thailand recorded on Monday its first case of the Covid-19 coronavirus Omicron variant. AFP
BANGKOK — The Omicron Covid-19 variant has arrived in Thailand and is spreading, expert virologist Dr Yong Poovorawan said in a Facebook post on Sunday.
He explained that the biggest concern was travelers testing negative during the incubation period and being allowed in under the Test & Go scheme.
READ: Thailand reimposes quarantine for travelers to halt Omicron spread
Dr Yong also said it was difficult to pinpoint the origin of Omicron infections in Thailand because many events are being held that may have triggered transmissions.
“The wave of Omicron infections in Thailand is not beyond our expectation because it can be transmitted quickly, even among people who have received two jabs,” he said.
“Hence, people should strictly adhere to measures to contain the spread of the virus.”
He also admitted that he was concerned that people traveling over the New Year break would cause Omicron to spread further.
Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said on Friday that 205 Omicron cases have been confirmed in many provinces, including Chiang Mai and Songkhla.
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