webfact

A tragic incident unfolded in Chonburi, Thailand, last night when Russian national Miss Oksana Savon, 44, fell to her death from the 6th floor of a luxury condominium. The local authorities were alerted to the scene on July 3, 2024, after residents reported a person falling from a height. When the Pattaya City Police arrived at the Jomtien 2nd Road condominium, they found Miss Savon's lifeless body near the building. The resident condominium, known for its towering structure of over 40 floors, quickly became a site of investigation. According to reports, Miss Savon had been staying in room 613 on the 6th floor. Preliminary inquiries suggest that a domestic dispute had escalated prior to the incident. Miss Savon had an argument with her husband, who is also Russian, over her desire to smoke marijuana. Her husband's prohibition reportedly caused her severe distress, culminating in her decision to jump off the balcony. The police quickly moved to secure the area, barring any unrelated individuals from approaching the scene. The investigation involved a thorough inspection of the deceased's room and recording of evidence. The Pattaya Tourist Police and Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Foundation assisted in the immediate aftermath of the incident. CCTV footage from the building is being reviewed, and the police are questioning the husband to piece together a clearer picture of the events leading up to the tragedy. The forensic team from Chonburi Province's Zone 2 is also set to conduct a detailed examination of Miss Savon's body to establish the precise cause of death. Picture courtesy: Channel 7 -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Police Nab OnlyFans Star; Sex Tapes In Rice Fields and Forests Exposed Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Thai authorities have apprehended 27-year-old Mr. Patiphat, a transgender OnlyFans content creator, who earned 100,000 baht a month by filming explicit material in rural areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331456-thai-police-nab-onlyfans-star-sex-tapes-in-rice-fields-and-forests-exposed/

Thai authorities have apprehended 27-year-old Mr. Patiphat, a transgender OnlyFans content creator, who earned 100,000 baht a month by filming explicit material in rural areas. Chachoengsao – Yesterday, Mr. Patiphat was arrested at his home in Tambon Tha Khai, Mueang District, marking a significant breakthrough for the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). He faces charges related to human trafficking, child pornography production, and the distribution of obscene materials. **Shock Discovery:** Authorities discovered Mr. Patiphat's activities while investigating human trafficking crimes via online media. He managed a Twitter account and a successful OnlyFans page boasting over 130,000 followers. These accounts featured more than 100 explicit clips, primarily male-to-male intercourse, often shot in unconventional settings like forests, rice fields, and boxing arenas. Investigations revealed that one victim, a 17-year-old boy, was coerced into producing these illicit videos. The boy was lured under false pretenses, then involved in making explicit child pornography to attract followers. Mr. Patiphat, who worked as a salesperson at a local department store, admitted to creating his online accounts six months ago. He explained that his calculated strategy to feature locations like rice fields and forests significantly boosted his follower count and monthly earnings, exceeding 100,000 baht. Thai Police Nab OnlyFans Star; Sex Tapes In Rice Fields and Forests ExposedThis startling case highlights a worrying trend where social media platforms and subscription sites are misused for illegal activities, exploiting vulnerable individuals, including minors. Patipat's fondness for unusual filming locations was intended to add intrigue, thereby attracting a larger audience. While under custody, Mr. Patiphat admitted to his operations but defended them as a means to stand out in a saturated market. He claimed that incorporating children into his content was a misguided attempt to increase viewership. As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to ensuring justice for the victims and curbing the proliferation of child exploitation through online platforms. Picture courtesy: Amarin TV -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Ignore Knife-Wielding Man's Fee Demand on Phuket Beach Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz An alarming incident unfolded recently at a Phuket beach, involving a man allegedly threatening two fishermen with a machete while demanding a beach fee. Despite having evidence, the local police dismissed the complaint, deeming it a mere story. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331452-police-ignore-knife-wielding-mans-fee-demand-on-phuket-beach/

An alarming incident unfolded recently at a Phuket beach, involving a man allegedly threatening two fishermen with a machete while demanding a beach fee. Despite having evidence, the local police dismissed the complaint, deeming it a mere story. On July 3, local fisherman Wut, shared his experience, explaining that he and his friends initially went fishing at Kamala Beach. On their way back, they decided to fish at Pa Praw Beach. They encountered no issues until their return when they saw a man collecting money from two Thai men and inquiring about their activities. The man then demanded a fee of 50 baht per person from Wut and his friends for beach access. When Wut questioned the man, citing he had never heard of such a fee before, the man claimed someone from a nearby bar instructed him to collect it. As Wut attempted to take a photo, the man pulled out a machete and threatened them. Terrified, Wut and his friends fled the scene. Later, Wut reported the incident to Patong Police Station, seeking legal action. However, the police informed him that since he was not directly harmed, they could not file a complaint, dismissing the events as just a story. Wut expressed his concern that such actions could escalate, posing a danger to other beachgoers, as the man was extorting money unlawfully. Eventually, the police documented the man’s possession of a weapon in public but took no further action. Another fisherman, Affan, corroborated Wut’s account. Arriving at Kalim Beach around 4pm, he too faced the knife-wielding man demanding a 50 baht entrance fee. Affan refused to pay and noticed the man was armed. He opted to negotiate but decided against following the man elsewhere. Affan also reported the incident to Patong Police Station but received a similar dismissive response despite possessing video evidence. The reluctance of local authorities to take swift action has raised concerns about the safety of beachgoers and whether more serious incidents might occur in the future. Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Garbage Collector Discovers Two Male Infant Bodies in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Matichon A shocking discovery occurred this morning in Bangkok's Phaya Thai District when a garbage collector found the bodies of two male infants in the back of his truck. The incident took place at the entrance of Soi Phahonyothin 13 in Samsen Nai Subdistrict. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331450-garbage-collector-discovers-two-male-infant-bodies-in-bangkok/

A shocking discovery occurred this morning in Bangkok's Phaya Thai District when a garbage collector found the bodies of two male infants in the back of his truck. The incident took place at the entrance of Soi Phahonyothin 13 in Samsen Nai Subdistrict. Pol. Lt. Col. Suphat Hemchinda of the Bang Sue Police Station was alerted to the grim find and quickly arrived at the scene with a forensic team, a doctor from the Police General Hospital, and Ruamkatanyu volunteers. Upon arrival, authorities confirmed the presence of the two infant bodies, which were approximately 7-8 months gestational age. The babies were still attached to their placentas and umbilical cords, indicating they were likely stillborn or died shortly after birth. Initial examinations suggest the infants had been deceased for about 10 hours. The discovery was made by Mr. Saran Somsri, a 49-year-old garbage collector. Mr. Somsri recounted that he was performing his usual duties, collecting garbage from within Soi Phahonyothin 13. As he emptied the contents of the last three garbage baskets into the truck, he noticed the first infant's body sliding down among the rubbish. A second body, wrapped in a plastic bag, was found stuck to the garbage compactor. Disturbed, Mr. Somsri immediately informed his colleagues, who then notified the local police. Pol. Col. Phuwanon Unphothi, leading the forensic team, stated that the initial focus would be on examining CCTV footage from surrounding areas to track the person responsible for discarding the infants. The bodies have been sent to the Police General Hospital for further examination to determine more about the circumstances of their deaths and any identifying information. Authorities are now intensively investigating to uncover the origins of the infants and the identity of the person who abandoned them. Legal actions will follow once the investigations provide clear leads. Picture courtesy: Matichon -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Robbed of 3.3 Million Baht After Bank Withdrawal in Bangkok video screenshot A man was robbed of 3.3 million baht shortly after withdrawing the sum from a bank on Phatthanakan Road, Bangkok, by two gunmen who then fled the scene on a motorcycle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331449-man-robbed-of-33-million-baht-after-bank-withdrawal-in-bangkok/

video screenshot A man was robbed of 3.3 million baht shortly after withdrawing the sum from a bank on Phatthanakan Road, Bangkok, by two gunmen who then fled the scene on a motorcycle. At 3:30 p.m. on 3 July 2024, Prawet Police Station officers responded to a robbery incident in the parking lot of a supermarket located in Suan Luang District, Bangkok. Upon arriving, they found the victim, Mr. Yanai Techathabat, 44, next to his Toyota Wish car, visibly shaken. Mr. Techathabat recounted the traumatic encounter: after withdrawing the large sum from a nearby bank and returning to his vehicle, he was accosted by two men brandishing guns. The assailants forced him to sit back in the car, then quickly grabbed a bag containing the cash. They made their escape on a black Yamaha X-Max motorcycle, heading towards Phatthanakan Road. The police, led by Pol. Col. Surapong Phutkhao, promptly began their investigation. Surveillance footage in the vicinity is being reviewed to track down the suspects, who were described as wearing dark clothing and helmets to conceal their identities. The motorcycle's license plate number has yet to be identified. Notably, the victim shares a surname commonly associated with a prominent executive in Thailand’s mobile phone sector, adding a layer of intrigue to the case. Authorities are considering all potential angles, including whether the robbery was opportunistic or if Mr. Techathabat was specifically targeted. The investigation continues, and forensic officers are collecting evidence from the scene. Mr. Techathabat has been taken to Prawet Police Station for further questioning, with the hope of quickly identifying and apprehending the culprits. The brazen nature of the robbery in broad daylight has left the local community highly concerned, highlighting the need for heightened vigilance and security. -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Hits 17.5 Million Tourists in H1 2024, Eyes 36.7 Million by Year-End File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand welcomed a remarkable 17.5 million foreign tourists in the first six months of 2024, marking a 35% increase from the previous year. This impressive surge sets the country on a clear path towards achieving its ambitious target of 36.7 million tourists by year-end, as per data from the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331445-thailand-hits-175-million-tourists-in-h1-2024-eyes-367-million-by-year-end/

Thailand welcomed a remarkable 17.5 million foreign tourists in the first six months of 2024, marking a 35% increase from the previous year. This impressive surge sets the country on a clear path towards achieving its ambitious target of 36.7 million tourists by year-end, as per data from the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The largest chunk of these visitors came from China, with 3.43 million tourists, followed by Malaysia with 2.43 million, and India with 1.04 million. These figures highlight the strength of Thailand's appeal across diverse markets. Several factors are driving this upward trend. Celebrity influence, the ongoing summer holiday season, and new governmental travel initiatives are all encouraging more people to travel to Thailand. To accommodate the influx, the Thai government is ramping up flights in partnership with airlines and extending visa-free entry to additional countries. Notably, a mutual visa exemption agreement with China, effective from 1st March, has significantly eased travel between the two nations. Revenue generated from international visitors this year stands at approximately 825 billion baht (around 22.39 billion USD). The ministry aims to hit a tourism revenue target of 3.5 trillion baht (about 95 billion USD) for 2024. The optimistic projections led the Thai government to raise its yearly tourist target by an additional 1 million visitors, enhancing the growth outlook with an expected GDP bump to 3%. As a reference, during the pre-pandemic peak in 2019, Thailand attracted a record 39.9 million tourists, bringing in 1.91 trillion baht (about 51.8 billion USD). Tourism remains a vital component of Thailand's economy, contributing around 12% to the nation's GDP. With these initiatives and favourable conditions, Thailand’s tourism industry is poised for a robust recovery and potential new highs in the months ahead. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 4 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331443-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-4-july-2024/

Thailand’s Constitutional Court has set July 17 as the next hearing date for a case seeking the dissolution of the popular opposition Move Forward Party, which has 30 per cent of seats in the Lower House of Parliament. The court’s president said this week there would be a verdict in the case before September. The Anti-Corruption Commission has recommended that the the bangkok local authority the BMA's be investigated over an almost 4 -billion-baht project to lease 842 electric garbage trucks over five years. Its letter to the secretariat suggested the investigation should focus on compliance with budget regulations, the scope of the lease, costs of charging stations, truck capacity, maintenance expenses, and pilot projects, to ensure there is no corruption. The United States has launched a new academic programme to boost education ties with Thailand. 18 US and 29 Thai universities and colleges will participate in the program to help create more student- exchange programmes, A new train service connecting Bangkok and Vientiane in Laos is due to begin services on July 19th. The first train will leave bangkok at 9.25pm and arrive at Vientiane's station at 5 past nine the next morning, the ticket price is expected to be around 300 baht Locally, authorities and transport agencies in Prachuap Khiri Khan met with the aim to secure funds to carry out road improvements to enhance road safety and reduce accidents. The meeting also reviewed a proposal for an integrated disaster prevention and training project aimed at preventing road accidents. Around the region. Indonesia Key members of the terror group Jemaah Islamiyah in have dissolved the organisation, but analysts caution that the threat posed by the group, which has claimed responsibility for a string of deadly attacks in the region, continues. The group stated they are ready to be actively involved in promoting the country’s independence. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunder showers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy thundershowers 31 Pattaya: Cloudy with thunder showers 29 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with thundershowers 29 Hua Hin:Cloudy with rain mainly in the afternoon, 31 AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-07-04 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Car Falls into Construction Pit in Pattaya, Second Similar Accident Recently By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Pattaya —A sedan partially fell into a shallow construction hole in Pattaya in the early hours of Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024. Luckily, there were no injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331440-car-falls-into-construction-pit-in-pattaya-second-similar-accident-recently/

Pattaya —A sedan partially fell into a shallow construction hole in Pattaya in the early hours of Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024. Luckily, there were no injuries. A video about the recent construction pit issues in Pattaya is HERE on our YouTube channel. The accident occurred at the front of the Phu Yai Kui Market in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Rescue workers received reports of the accident around 2 AM and responded to the scene. There, the rescuers found a Toyota Yaris car, with its front plunging into a construction pit for laying water pipes. The car was slightly damaged. It was found that there were only traffic cones placed around the edge of the pit, and there were no warning lights indicating the construction area. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indian Tourist Seriously Injured on Sea Walker Tour in Pattaya, Police Investigate By Adam Judd Pattaya-In response to a serious incident involving an Indian tourist, the Pattaya tourist police conducted an inspection of a Sea Walker business, a popular water activity attraction. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331437-indian-tourist-seriously-injured-on-sea-walker-tour-in-pattaya-police-investigate/

Pattaya-In response to a serious incident involving an Indian tourist, the Pattaya tourist police conducted an inspection of a Sea Walker business, a popular water activity attraction. The tourist had become seriously injured while participating on the Sea Walker and required immediate medical attention at Bangkok Pattaya Hospital. In a sea walker business, a tourist wears a helmet providing air while exploring the bottom of a relatively shallow area of the Pattaya Gulf. Police Lieutenant Colonel Piyaphong Ensarn, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Suparat Meepreecha and Pol. Lt. Col. Apichart Jarurak, led the investigation. The team examined two boats associated with the attraction: the Marine Diving Service paddle boat and the Kong Samut 8 boat, both located near the Koh Sak area in Chonburi Province. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Red Bull Co-Owners Top Thailand’s Richest List Picture courtesy: 3PLUS news Chalerm Yoovidhya & family, co-owners of Red Bull, have emerged as the wealthiest individuals in Thailand, according to Forbes' latest ranking. Their combined wealth surged by $2.6 billion, hitting a record $36 billion, thanks to Red Bull’s robust performance with over $11 billion in revenue from more than 12 billion cans sold globally in 2023. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331434-red-bull-co-owners-top-thailand’s-richest-list/

Chalerm Yoovidhya & family, co-owners of Red Bull, have emerged as the wealthiest individuals in Thailand, according to Forbes' latest ranking. Their combined wealth surged by $2.6 billion, hitting a record $36 billion, thanks to Red Bull’s robust performance with over $11 billion in revenue from more than 12 billion cans sold globally in 2023. This advancement crowns them as the new leaders in the Forbes list of Thailand’s top 50 richest, overshadowing the long-reigning Chearavanont brothers. The Chearavanont brothers, linked to the Charoen Pokphand Group, saw their fortune drop from $34 billion to $29 billion, pushing them to the second position. This decline is attributed largely to the underperformance of Ping An Insurance, a major holding of theirs, which posted a significant $2.7 billion loss in 2023. Occupying the third spot is Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi of Thai Beverage. Although maintaining his position, his net worth dwindled from $13.6 billion to $10 billion. Following closely is the Chirathivat family, owners of the Central Group, at $9.9 billion, marking a substantial decrease from $12.4 billion. Their recent acquisition of London's Selfridges further cements their presence in the global retail market. In fifth place, Sarath Ratanavadi experienced a drop in his wealth to $9.2 billion from $11.3 billion, marking his first significant dip since his debut in the rankings six years ago. Conversely, the beverage market buoyed the fortunes of several entrants, including Carabao co-founder Sathien Sathientham at $1.75 billion and Ichitan Group's Tan Passakornnatee at $620 million. Notably, the passing of patriarchs Petch Osathanugrah and Chaivat Taepaisitphongse saw their heirs inherit the vast fortunes, securing positions within the top 50. Despite the overall economic downturn, the Forbes list highlights the dynamic nature of Thailand’s richest and the fluctuating trends influenced by global and local market shifts. The minimum net worth required to enter this year's list was $550 million, slightly down from last year’s $590 million. Public fortunes were calculated using stock prices and exchange rates as of June 14th, offering a snapshot of the financial landscape amid a challenging economic period. Picture courtesy: 3PLUS news -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Immigration Crackdown: Four Foreign Nationals Arrested Picture courtesy: ศูนย์ข้อมูลภูเก็ต Phuket Info Center Immigration officers in Phuket have detained four foreign nationals for overstaying their visas. This action is part of a wider crackdown aimed at ensuring compliance with visa regulations on the popular tourist island. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331433-phuket-immigration-crackdown-four-foreign-nationals-arrested/

Immigration officers in Phuket have detained four foreign nationals for overstaying their visas. This action is part of a wider crackdown aimed at ensuring compliance with visa regulations on the popular tourist island. The individuals arrested include two Egyptians, a Pakistani, and a Russian. Specific details are as follows: - **Mr. Mohamed El-Sayed**, an Egyptian national, was found to be in the country on a visa overstay of 1,898 days. - **Mr. Zubair Ahmed**, a Pakistani citizen, had overstayed by 1,734 days. - **Mr. Haitham Khalil**, another Egyptian, was discovered to have overstayed his visa by 234 days. - **Mr. Dmitrii Ivanov**, a Russian, had an overstay period of 413 days. The arrests took place on Tuesday, July 2nd, and were part of an ongoing effort by Phuket's Immigration Office to curb the issue of illegal stays within the island. Immigration authorities emphasised that all four men are now facing charges related to their extended and unlawful stays in Thailand. Further complicating the situation, the Phuket Immigration Office has issued a stringent warning to accommodation providers. These businesses are legally required to report the presence of foreign nationals living on their premises within a 24-hour window. Failure to do so will attract significant legal repercussions. This rule is enforceable under Thailand's Immigration Act and is aimed at ensuring that all foreign visitors are properly documented and monitored. This move comes amid growing concerns surrounding security and legal compliance on Phuket, a premier destination for international tourists. It is believed that tighter immigration controls will enhance the safety and public order of the area. While the arrests highlight ongoing challenges, they also reflect a commitment by local authorities to uphold the country's immigration laws rigorously. Both local residents and tourists have expressed mixed reactions, with some applauding the enforcement and others calling for more accessible visa extension processes. Further updates on this case and implications for visa policy in Phuket are expected in the coming weeks. Picture courtesy: ศูนย์ข้อมูลภูเก็ต Phuket Info Center -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha Launches Nationwide Crackdown on Drug Abuse PM Srettha Thavisin. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin launched an aggressive nationwide crackdown on drug abuse and trafficking, named the “X-ray” operations. This initiative seeks to root out drug abusers and dismantle trafficking networks across Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331431-pm-srettha-launches-nationwide-crackdown-on-drug-abuse/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin launched an aggressive nationwide crackdown on drug abuse and trafficking, named the “X-ray” operations. This initiative seeks to root out drug abusers and dismantle trafficking networks across Thailand. Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke announced that drug abusers will be directed to rehabilitation centres, while traffickers will face arrest and rigorous legal consequences. Provincial governors will lead the charge, ensuring individuals aged 16 and above undergo mandatory urine tests. This coordinated effort involves the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), local police, civil society, and community leaders. The primary goal is to rehabilitate drug users and bring traffickers to justice. "We must identify users and ensure they receive the help they need, while those who peddle drugs must face the full force of the law," said PM Srettha. In support of this initiative, ministries of Public Health, Interior, and Defence are tasked with constructing new rehabilitation facilities. The Labour and Social Development, and Human Security ministries will provide career training to rehabilitated individuals, aiding their reintegration into society. Additionally, the ministries overseeing Education, Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation will monitor students to protect them from drug influences, aiming to prevent new drug users. Since October last year, the impact of the crackdown is already significant. Police have apprehended 184,411 suspects in 177,121 drug-related cases, seizing 764 million amphetamine tablets, 1.27 tonnes of heroin, 4.17 tonnes of ketamine, 30 kilogrammes of cocaine, and 127,190 MDMA tablets. Furthermore, assets worth 6.34 billion baht have been confiscated, with 108,304 individuals sent for rehabilitation. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has endorsed the allocation of seized assets from drug cases to fund rehabilitation efforts. During his tenure as Justice Ministry chair, he amended narcotic laws, particularly concerning asset seizures, to further strengthen these initiatives. PM Srettha Thavisin. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's COVID-19 Surge Expected to Peak in July File photo courtesy: Depositphotos Thailand faces a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, with infections expected to peak in July, according to Dr. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, chief of Thailand’s Disease Control Department. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331429-thailands-covid-19-surge-expected-to-peak-in-july/

Thailand faces a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, with infections expected to peak in July, according to Dr. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, chief of Thailand’s Disease Control Department. The country reported 3,256 hospital admissions and 16 fatalities between June 23rd and 29th, highlighting an alarming rise in cases. Out of these recent hospital admissions, 709 patients suffered from severe lung infections, and 336 required ventilators. Since the start of the year, Thailand has seen a total of 31,205 COVID-19 hospital admissions, resulting in 172 deaths, predominantly among those over the age of 69. The Disease Control Department has issued renewed guidelines for those most at risk. Individuals over 60, those with pre-existing health conditions, and pregnant women are advised to take stringent preventive measures. These include wearing face masks in crowded settings, frequent hand washing with soap or alcohol-based hand sanitiser, and undergoing rapid antigen tests if COVID-19 symptoms emerge. Positive cases should consult a doctor for appropriate treatment and avoid contact with vulnerable populations. Dr. Apichart Wachiraphan, deputy director-general of the Disease Control Department, compared the current surge in COVID-19 infections to patterns seen with seasonal flu, often tied to crowded gatherings and activities. He noted that while cases are expected to peak in July, the current fatality rate stands at 0.04%. This is a significant reduction from the 2.16% fatality rate recorded in June 2021, reflecting advancements in treatment and vaccination efforts. As Thailand braces for the peak, health officials continue to stress the importance of adhering to preventive measures to mitigate the spread and reduce the impact on the healthcare system. File photo courtesy: Depositphotos -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe