BANGKOK, Jan 17 (TNA) – Lab test results confirm
the second case of new coronavirus in Thailand, a Chinese tourist
from Wuhan, who arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Jan 13, said Thai Public
Health Ministry.
The Chinese woman was detected by screening on
arrival at the airport and has been treated at an isolation ward at a state health
facility outside of Bangkok, said Permanent Secretary Sukhum Karnchanapimai.
Thai authorities will step up surveillance measures
during the Chinese New Year when Chinese tourist arrivals are expected to
increase by 50 per cent with direct flights from Wuhan to Thailand’s five international
airports.
About 1,200-1,400 Chinese tourists from Wuhan arrive
in Thailand daily on average. AirAsia and China Southern Airlines will be asked
to help screening tourists at their departure.
Department of Disease Control chief Suwanchai
Wattanayingcharoenchai said his department contacted the Chinese embassy to
issue warning for Chinese tourists via WeChat.
Travel restriction has not been imposed so far. Thai
citizens, who have developed fever after visiting Wuhan can call 1422 to ask
for check-ups. Thai tourists, travelling to Wuhan are recommended to avoid
visiting markets and hospitals.
Thailand earlier confirmed a 61-year-old Chinese
tourist from Wuhan, having infected with new coronavirus. The authorities detected her illness through
screening at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Jan 8.
The minister confirmed that the contraction of the
disease did not occur in Thailand. The Chinese woman is now receiving treatment
at Bamrasnaradura Infectious Diseases Institute in Nonthaburi. It is expected
that she will be able to return home soon. (TNA)
