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File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a move that could revolutionise Thailand's entertainment landscape, MGM China Holdings recently indicated its interest in making a significant investment in the country. This potential expansion, revealed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), comes as part of MGM's broader strategy to attract more Thai tourists to Macau and potentially establish an entertainment complex in Thailand. The announcement followed a high-level meeting between TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool and MGM China Holdings Chairperson Pansy Ho. During the meeting, the parties discussed ways to boost tourism between Thailand and Macau and explored MGM's investing in Thailand’s emerging entertainment sector. “An investment from a global giant like MGM would significantly enhance Thailand’s appeal to international markets,” said Thapanee. “This could particularly attract tourists from China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.” Thailand is in the process of drafting new laws and regulations to accommodate entertainment complexes, including legal casinos. Thapanee said that discussions with MGM could lead to collaborations that boost Thailand’s tourism competitiveness via innovative attractions and activities. The Thai tourism sector faces a challenging target of generating 2.4 trillion baht over the next seven months to meet its annual goal of 3.5 trillion baht. The sector has collected only 1.1 trillion baht in the first five months of this year, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Iwan Dietschi, Senior Vice-President of Hospitality at MGM China, confirmed Thailand’s importance to MGM's strategy. “Thailand is a top priority market for us, representing the largest group of visitors from Southeast Asia and the fastest growing market,” he said, noting a 30% year-on-year increase in Thai visitors to MGM hotels in 2024. MGM has even stationed a sales representative in Thailand to further develop this market. Meanwhile, MGM China is participating in the Experience Macao Roadshow in Bangkok, organised by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO). The event, held at CentralWorld, aims to boost Thai tourism to Macau. According to MGTO, Thai tourists were the fifth-largest group of visitors to Macau in the first five months of 2024. Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG), another major player in Macau, also participated in the roadshow, promoting its luxury hotels to high-spending Thai visitors. Samantha Lyu, Senior Manager for Media Services at GEG, noted a significant recovery in Macau’s tourism driven by Chinese tourists, with GEG reporting a 50% year-on-year revenue growth in the first quarter and plans to open a new office in Bangkok. It remains to be seen how MGM’s potential investments and collaborative efforts could reshape Thailand's tourism and entertainment sectors.

PM Tests Positive for Covid-19, Set to Return Wednesday Srettha Thavisin. FIle photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has tested positive for Covid-19 and is advised to rest until next Wednesday, June 19. The Prime Minister's Office confirmed the diagnosis late last night, revealing that Srettha has been feeling unwell since Friday, June 14. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329919-pm-tests-positive-for-covid-19-set-to-return-wednesday/

Srettha Thavisin. FIle photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has tested positive for Covid-19 and is advised to rest until next Wednesday, June 19. The Prime Minister's Office confirmed the diagnosis late last night, revealing that Srettha has been feeling unwell since Friday, June 14. Health Concerns and Precautions According to Chai Watcharong, the spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, Srettha consulted a doctor who confirmed the Covid-19 infection. The physician has recommended he rest and isolate to prevent further spread of the virus. Srettha expressed regret over any possible exposure to those he has met and urged them to undergo testing if they exhibit symptoms. Upcoming Constitutional Court Ruling Coincidentally, the Prime Minister faces a crucial court ruling on Tuesday, June 18, regarding an impeachment lawsuit filed by 40 senators. The Constitutional Court might order his suspension, which could prevent him from addressing the House of Representatives on the 3.75 trillion baht 2025 budget legislation scheduled for the following Wednesday. Potential Interim Leadership Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai may serve as acting prime minister if the court orders Srettha's suspension. Known as a close associate of Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, Phumtham may also have to address the House on the 2025 budget bill if Srettha remains indisposed. Allegations of Constitutional Violations The impeachment case alleges that Srettha violated the constitution and ethical standards by appointing Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer for Thaksin, as a minister. Chuenban, sentenced to jail in the past for attempted bribery and contempt of court, has since resigned under pressure. Additional Legal Battles on the Horizon The Constitutional Court is also deliberating two other significant cases on June 18. One involves the potential dissolution of the Move Forward party for allegedly undermining national rule by advocating changes to the lese majeste law, Section 112 of the Criminal Code. The other case questions the constitutionality of the triple-tiered election of 200 senators nationwide. These legal battles highlight a critical period for Thailand's political landscape, with the outcomes likely to have significant ramifications. -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

New COVID Sub-variant KP.2 on the Rise in Thailand File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is witnessing a swift rise in cases of the COVID-19 KP.2 sub-variant, a mutation overtaking the previously prevalent JN.1 strain. Dr Yong Poovorawan, leading the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University, highlighted the situation on his Facebook page earlier today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329918-new-covid-sub-variant-kp2-on-the-rise-in-thailand/

Thailand is witnessing a swift rise in cases of the COVID-19 KP.2 sub-variant, a mutation overtaking the previously prevalent JN.1 strain. Dr Yong Poovorawan, leading the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology at Chulalongkorn University, highlighted the situation on his Facebook page earlier today. “The KP.2 sub-variant, also known as FLi RT, is outcompeting the JN.1 strain, which had been dominant since late last year. While the current vaccines developed against the XBB.1.5 strain show limited effectiveness against this new mutation, it’s crucial not to panic,” Dr Yong commented. Background checks reveal that KP.2, a mutation sprouting from JN.1, is more transmissible and shows an enhanced ability to evade immune responses. Despite these changes, the severity of symptoms remains comparable to previously circulating variants. Dr Yong Poovorawan. File photo: courtesy: Chulalongkorn University What’s causing concern among medical professionals is the rapid pace at which KP.2 is spreading. Dr Yong predicts it will become the dominant variant in the country shortly. “The World Health Organisation (WHO) has already asked vaccine manufacturers to adapt their formulations to tackle the JN.1 variant. However, the virus has swiftly mutated to KP.2, making it challenging for vaccine developers to keep up,” he noted. This rapid evolution underscores the agility of the coronavirus and the ongoing challenge for vaccine developers to adapt. The KP.2 sub-variant’s ability to bypass immunity highlights the pressing need for continuous surveillance and agile vaccine development. As health authorities race to adjust their strategies, the public is advised to maintain standard precautions – wearing masks, practising physical distancing and observing good hygiene. The coming days will be crucial as experts monitor the variant's impact and strategise measures to contain its spread effectively. Stay tuned for further updates and expert insights into this evolving situation. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 17 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1329917-thailand-live-monday-17-june-2024/

On June 16, 2024, a tragic incident marred the annual Rocket Festival at Ban Sang Bu Temple in Roi Et Province. The normally joyous event, which attracts numerous locals and visitors to Phon Sai Sawang Subdistrict, Phon Thong District, ended in disaster when a rocket explosion caused significant injuries among the attendees. Explosion strikes annual rocket festival in Roi Et: 30 injured Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329912-explosion-strikes-annual-rocket-festival-in-roi-et-30-injured/

MFP’s support for Pheu Thai sparks coalition speculation by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Move Forward Party (MFP) has recently shown a surprisingly empathetic stance towards the ruling Pheu Thai Party, sparking accusations that their previous antagonism may have been an act. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329844-mfp’s-support-for-pheu-thai-sparks-coalition-speculation/

The Move Forward Party (MFP) has recently shown a surprisingly empathetic stance towards the ruling Pheu Thai Party, sparking accusations that their previous antagonism may have been an act. Observers have noted two key developments suggesting a possible reconciliation between the two largest parties, following Pheu Thai’s earlier decision to abandon a post-election promise to form a government with MFP. Instead of partnering with MFP, Pheu Thai aligned with conservative parties, including Bhumjaithai, Palang Pracharath, and United Thai Nation, excluding MFP from the coalition. MFP had the opportunity to nominate its leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, as premier with Pheu Thai’s support, but the Senate rejected Pita’s bid outright. Allegations surfaced about a secret meeting in Hong Kong involving influential political figures from Pheu Thai and MFP, discussing the possibility of MFP replacing the conservative bloc in the coalition if necessary. Initially, scepticism surrounded the so-called “Hong Kong deal.” However, a shift in MFP’s approach towards the Pheu Thai-led coalition has since lent credibility to these claims. Recently, MFP withdrew from the provincial administrative organisation (PAO) chairman race in Pathum Thani, a move that puzzled supporters and political observers. Pathum Thani is a stronghold for MFP, where they secured a clean sweep in last year’s general election. The withdrawal left Pheu Thai’s candidate as the likely winner. MFP list MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn lamented the wasted years due to military coups. “It’s a pity that the people of the current generation are finding their ageing serves no useful purpose. Their time has been lost because of the coups.” Wiroj referred to former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, mentioning the 2006 protests that led to Thaksin’s ousting. Thaksin, who fled before being convicted of abuse of power in 2008, received a royal pardon last year, reducing his jail term from eight years to one year and is now on parole. Wiroj’s comments, interpreted as sympathetic to Thaksin who still wields significant influence over Pheu Thai, along with MFP’s Pathum Thani PAO race withdrawal, fuelled speculation of a potential MFP-Pheu Thai coalition. However, MFP leader Chaithawat Tulathon dismissed these rumours, asserting that the two parties remain direct competitors. Political observers note that MFP has strategic reasons to play hard to get. A survey by King Prajadhipok’s Institute indicated MFP’s rising popularity, projecting more than 200 seats in the next election, significantly outpacing Pheu Thai, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Airplane Makes Emergency Landing At U Tapao Airport After Landing Gear Problem by TNR Staff The FlyDubai flight making an emergency landing at U Tapao Airport last night. Photo: CR and shared on X by F91 Trafficpro A FLYDUBAI aircraft heading from Dubai to the Philippines made an emergency landing at U Tapao Airport soon after midnight last night (June 15) after the landing gear initially failed to deploy, Sanook.com, TV Channel 7, Naewna and Daily News newspapers said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329842-airplane-makes-emergency-landing-at-u-tapao-airport-after-landing-gear-problem/

A FLYDUBAI aircraft heading from Dubai to the Philippines made an emergency landing at U Tapao Airport soon after midnight last night (June 15) after the landing gear initially failed to deploy, Sanook.com, TV Channel 7, Naewna and Daily News newspapers said. Approximately a hundred passengers plus the captain, a co-pilot and seven crew members were unharmed. The captain of Airbus A319-115 (CJ) aircraft asked to land at U Tapao Airport at 00.30 a.m. after an emergency light flashed that the landing gear would not deploy. The airport’s air traffic controllers quickly alerted the ground staff to prepare for this emergency landing with over 40 ambulances from Rayong and Chonburi quickly getting there. by TNR Staff PICTURE: The FlyDubai flight making an emergency landing at U Tapao Airport last night. Photo: CR and shared on X by F91 Trafficpro Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha Dismisses Resignation Rumours Amid Legal Challenges Picture courtesy: News Directory Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has firmly dismissed rumours about his potential resignation or dissolving the House of Representatives. These speculations have gained traction as he faces a Constitutional Court case questioning his appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a PM’s Office minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329841-pm-srettha-dismisses-resignation-rumours-amid-legal-challenges/

Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has firmly dismissed rumours about his potential resignation or dissolving the House of Representatives. These speculations have gained traction as he faces a Constitutional Court case questioning his appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a PM’s Office minister. In a recent statement, Srettha clarified, “I never think about resignation or a House dissolution. Let the legal procedure take its course. I never think of running away. When the judges have questions, I have the duty to explain and respect their decision.” His legal team has already provided a list of additional witnesses to the court. This case, initiated by 40 senators in May, questions if Srettha and Pichit should be removed under Section 170 (4) and (5) of the charter, focusing on the ethics of Cabinet ministers. Interestingly, Pichit resigned just as the court accepted the petition, seemingly to protect Srettha from legal issues. The court will hear Srettha’s case on Tuesday, June 18, with evidence to be submitted by Monday. There is a chance that Srettha could lose his position if the court rules against him. However, his prospects might have improved after appointing legal expert Wissanu Krea-ngam as an adviser. Wissanu reviewed the prime minister’s defence documents, though he did not draft them. Pichit's appointment raised ethical questions due to his past; he was previously jailed for contempt of court in a 2008 bribery case related to former PM Thaksin Shinawatra. This history makes his eligibility for a cabinet role contentious. In the backdrop, political science lecturer Yuttaporn Issarachai from Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University highlighted the importance of these Constitutional Court cases: “The outcome of the court cases could change the political landscape.” These legal decisions could lead to a new prime minister being elected by parliament and potentially a new coalition government. Additionally, the Constitutional Court will soon hear a case against the main opposition Move Forward Party (MFP), which could also significantly alter the current political dynamics. If the MFP is dissolved, some members might join other parties, potentially reshaping future coalitions. All eyes are now on the court rulings, which are set to reshape the country's political future. Picture courtesy: News Directory -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha monitors Bangkok canal development projects by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has taken a hands-on approach to ensure the success of a monumental development project in celebration of His Majesty the King’s 72nd Birthday or 6th Cycle Anniversary on July 28. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329839-pm-srettha-monitors-bangkok-canal-development-projects/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has taken a hands-on approach to ensure the success of a monumental development project in celebration of His Majesty the King’s 72nd Birthday or 6th Cycle Anniversary on July 28. The ambitious Klong Ong Ang and Klong Bang Lamphu project, one of 10 initiatives aimed at rejuvenating Bangkok, has been hailed for transforming the cityscape, making it cleaner, more organised, and aesthetically pleasing. During his visit, the 62 year old PM urged Bangkok authorities to spotlight the canal’s key attractions to lure tourists, stressing the importance of promoting Klong Ong Ang Canal to an international audience. “We must highlight the unique features of these canals to attract visitors from around the globe.” Locals have echoed the prime minister’s enthusiasm, calling on the governor and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to maintain the area’s cleanliness and orderliness continuously. They believe that sustained efforts are crucial for the project’s long-term success and appeal. Before inspecting the progress at Bang Lamphu Museum and overseeing preparations for the Royal Barge Procession on the Chao Phraya River, Srettha ensured that all initiatives were advancing as planned, reported Pattaya Mail. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Many Thai industries in battle for survival Are Thai industries under threat of a massive collapse, given rapid changes in technology, fierce competition from China and the planned hike in daily minimum wage? Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329837-many-thai-industries-in-battle-for-survival/

Are Thai industries under threat of a massive collapse, given rapid changes in technology, fierce competition from China and the planned hike in daily minimum wage? Two Japanese carmakers, Subaru and Suzuki, have announced that they will shut down their manufacturing sites in Thailand at the end of this year and next year respectively, amid shrinking demand for their vehicles. More factories closing down In a reflection of the direness of the situation, 1,700 factories are reported to have shut down since early last year running up to the first quarter of this year. Many local factories risk going out of business because of the sluggish economic conditions, fast-changing technology, slower-than-expected recovery of the global economy and fierce competition from Chinese firms. “When large firms close their businesses, thousands of suppliers would be affected,” Tanit Sorat, vice chairman of the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry said, referring to the pull out by the Japanese automakers, and other large firms in industrial real estates closing operations in Thailand. Manufacturing activities have seen a long period of contraction as reflected in the Manufacturing Production Index (MPI) of the Office of Industrial Economics in the period December 2022 to March 2024. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Knife Attack on Myanmar Nationals Leads to Crash in Phuket Picture courtesy: Phuket News Late last night, a knife attack on two Myanmar nationals led to a serious road accident involving a food delivery driver in Srisoonthorn, Phuket. The incident unfolded at approximately 9:15pm at a three-way intersection near Phuket Provincial Prison in Moo 4. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329836-knife-attack-on-myanmar-nationals-leads-to-crash-in-phuket/

Late last night, a knife attack on two Myanmar nationals led to a serious road accident involving a food delivery driver in Srisoonthorn, Phuket. The incident unfolded at approximately 9:15pm at a three-way intersection near Phuket Provincial Prison in Moo 4. Responding to the scene, Thalang Police and rescue workers from Srisoonthorn Municipality found two motorbikes toppled on the road. Jirasak Jitphatphirom, a 41-year-old food delivery driver for Lineman, narrated the chaotic chain of events to the authorities. He explained that as he approached the intersection and checked for oncoming traffic, the two Myanmar men collided with him while fleeing from their knife-wielding assailant. One of the victims, 23-year-old Chui Tha Ko, suffered severe cuts to his front, back, and right arm. The other man, whose identity has not yet been confirmed, sustained an injury to his right index finger. Both men were promptly administered first aid on-site before being rushed to Thalang Hospital for further treatment. Thalang Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the area to track down the unknown attacker. They aim to piece together the moments leading up to the chase and collision to bring the assailant to justice. In an unrelated but unfortunate incident, two Chinese men surrendered to police after a sexual assault at a restaurant in Prachin Buri on Monday. The suspects allegedly tried to settle the case with a 1 million baht offer. The altercation began when a Chinese individual attacked a 20-year-old Thai waiter for intervening in an attempted sexual assault on a female entertainer in the restaurant’s bathroom. Meanwhile, a commendable act of bravery surfaced from Bang Phli, Samut Prakan. A security guard managed to save a resident from an assault using only a baton. The incident report was swiftly acted upon by police and rescue teams from Por Teck Tueng Foundation, dispatched to the scene on Tuesday evening, June 11, at 8:30pm. Picture courtesy: Phuket News -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Success Against Avian Flu: Lessons for the World File photo courtesy: Apichart Weerawong/AP Twenty years ago, Thailand faced a devastating avian flu outbreak, losing over 62 million birds, primarily chickens. The virus, identified as H5N1, spread rapidly among poultry and led to significant human fatalities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329833-thailands-success-against-avian-flu-lessons-for-the-world/

Twenty years ago, Thailand faced a devastating avian flu outbreak, losing over 62 million birds, primarily chickens. The virus, identified as H5N1, spread rapidly among poultry and led to significant human fatalities. Now, with countries like the U.S. facing similar outbreaks, there's much to learn from Thailand's effective response. In late 2003, Thailand's poultry industry, a global leader producing a billion chickens annually, was hit hard by the virus. By January 2004, authorities confirmed the outbreak, suspected to have jumped from wild waterfowl to chickens. The response was swift and rigorous: massive culling of infected and nearby flocks, compensated by the government, helped contain the spread. The country also restructured its poultry industry. Movement of live poultry was restricted, and farm hygiene standards were dramatically improved. A nationwide surveillance system, including village health volunteers, was established to report sick birds. This reform saw a shift from small backyard farms to large-scale, industrialised poultry operations with stringent biosecurity measures, significantly reducing the risk of future outbreaks. These large farms, with strict protocols on human entry and decontamination processes, effectively limited virus transmission. While smaller farms have re-emerged, industrial farms still dominate, helping to keep the disease contained. Other nations that faced similar outbreaks could adopt Thailand's multi-faceted approach to control the spread. Such measures include culling, stringent surveillance, and restricted movement of animals, which were successfully implemented in countries like Japan, South Korea, and the Netherlands. The case in the U.S. presents new challenges with H5N1 affecting not just poultry but also cattle. The dynamics differ significantly since cattle, unlike poultry, have a much higher economic value and show milder symptoms, making widespread culling unfeasible. Experts suggest adopting biosecurity measures from the poultry industry, such as protective gear and sanitisation protocols, while adapting them for dairy farms. Recommendations include sanitising milking machines and ensuring farmer compliance to prevent virus spread. Farmers' cooperation, incentivised through reasonable compensation, is crucial for effective monitoring and control efforts. Moving forward, as H5N1 continues to affect various animal species globally, innovative strategies beyond those tested in poultry will be essential to tackle this evolving threat. Thailand's experience underscores the importance of swift action, industry restructuring, and continuous monitoring in combating avian flu—lessons that remain relevant as the world confronts similar challenges today. File photo courtesy: Apichart Weerawong/AP -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Massive Rare Mineral Deposits Discovered in Thailand File photo. Source: Wikipedia Thailand is believed to be sitting on an extensive treasure trove of mineral resources, valued at a staggering US$1.20 quadrillion (44.41 quadrillion baht), according to a recent revelation by the Mineral Resources Department. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329831-massive-rare-mineral-deposits-discovered-in-thailand/

Thailand is believed to be sitting on an extensive treasure trove of mineral resources, valued at a staggering US$1.20 quadrillion (44.41 quadrillion baht), according to a recent revelation by the Mineral Resources Department. Pichit Sombatmak, the department's director-general, unveiled that around 30 trillion tonnes of minerals are dispersed across 60 million rai (9.6 million hectares) of the country. These minerals, if exploited, could kickstart new industries and significantly bolster the economy. Among these resources, rare minerals like lithium and quartz are particularly noteworthy. These can be harnessed in producing solar panels, electric vehicle (EV) battery cells, and electricity storage systems, key components in the growing renewable energy sector. Quartz, for instance, is vital in manufacturing high-efficiency solar panels. In addition, potash deposits in the Northeast offer immense potential. With an estimated 10 billion tonnes available across ten regions, valued at approximately 161 trillion baht, potash can be pivotal for developing fertilisers and even sodium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. Pichit believes that within five years, the government will back the production of these sodium-ion batteries, capitalising on the country's vast potash reserves. The department has also pinpointed 30 prospective sites spanning about 10 million rai in nine provinces, laden with rare and valuable minerals. One such mineral, monazite, found in significant quantities, can be sold for around 127,000 baht per tonne, contributing immensely to the economy. While the potential is grand, balancing environmental concerns and mining activities will be crucial as Thailand looks to harness these mineral resources for future growth and sustainability. The discovery opens up myriad possibilities, spearheading technological and industrial advancements while positioning Thailand as a key player in the global mineral market. File photo. Source: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Travellers Urged to Monitor for Bird Flu Symptoms After Trips Abroad File photo Travellers returning to Thailand from regions with H5N2 bird flu outbreaks have been advised to self-monitor for respiratory symptoms for 14 days. The advisory comes as a precaution following global concerns about the Avian Influenza A (H5N2) virus. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329830-travellers-urged-to-monitor-for-bird-flu-symptoms-after-trips-abroad/

Travellers returning to Thailand from regions with H5N2 bird flu outbreaks have been advised to self-monitor for respiratory symptoms for 14 days. The advisory comes as a precaution following global concerns about the Avian Influenza A (H5N2) virus. Dr Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, Chief of Disease Control in Thailand, confirmed that the country has remained free of bird flu cases in humans since 2006. Despite this, the health authorities are taking proactive measures, collaborating with the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, and the Department of Livestock to surveil animal populations for any signs of the virus. Travelers are urged to be vigilant and seek medical advice immediately if they develop flu-like symptoms, including respiratory difficulties, after returning from affected regions. Though no recent human cases have been reported in Thailand, vigilance remains crucial. Dr Thongchai noted that the Department of Medical Sciences and the Department of Livestock possess advanced laboratory capabilities to test for the H5N2 strain, ensuring rapid response in the event of an outbreak. The emphasis on vigilance follows a confirmed case by the World Health Organization (WHO), which reported the first fatality from H5N2 earlier this month. A 59-year-old man in Mexico passed away due to complications from the virus, which included breathing difficulties, diarrhoea, and vomiting. The man had underlying health conditions such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure but had no direct contact with poultry. An outbreak was noted in his area in March, making his case the first human contraction of the H5N2 variant. Despite the incident, the WHO maintains that the overall risk to the public from the H5N2 virus remains low. Nevertheless, Thai authorities urge continuous monitoring and adherence to recommended health precautions to mitigate any potential risks. File photo -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe