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Today, 447 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported across Laos. Over the last 24 hours, 5,588 tests were completed around the country, with 447 new cases verified, according to the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. Across the country, there were 432 cases of community spread and 15 imported cases. New Deaths Today, two deaths linked to Covid-19 were reported. A 42-year-old man from Vientiane Province's Phonhong District died in hospital yesterday afternoon. He had a blood disorder and had never been immunized against Covid-19. A 23-year-old male from Meuangnoy, Saysettha District, Vientiane Capital, died in a Saysettha District detention camp. The man had one dosage of the Sinpharm Covid-19 vaccination and was suffering from an unidentified health issue. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

Kandal Provincial Governor Kong Sophorn dispatched a team of experts today to look into allegations that two local enterprises were dredging sand from roughly 10 hectares of Boeng Trea lake to sell to building companies. Major Kim Visal, Kandal Stung district police officer, told Khmer Times today that the provincial relevant specialists were dispatched to check the lake region following several complaints from villagers who feared the two businesses had excavated deep pits that would endanger them. He mentioned that two youngsters in Trea village recently drowned after falling into a deep pit near their homes. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

The municipal administration of Phnom Penh has stressed again that 'high risk' commercial activities such as KTV, bars, and discos are prohibited for the period October 29 to November 11 in a release from The Ministry of Information today, October 29 – shared by the Office of Cambodian PM twitter account. Furthermore, save under the following circumstances, private gatherings of more than 50 individuals are prohibited: Religious or other rites involving family members and relations, as determined by the authorized authorities. Public meetings, gatherings, and meetings of health workers to carry out health measures such as collecting samples for Covid-19 and Covid-19 vaccine. Other emergency medical personnel's meetings. At all levels, the Administrative Unity Command gathers relevant authorities and forces to ensure security, order, and public order. People gathered during a judicial police officer's or a tribunal's sessions. Bringing together a group of civil servants as determined by the appropriate authorities. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Cambodia today reported its lowest daily case total in a remarkable run of 28 days of ‘new normal' low case counts as the country inches closer to reopening travel, tourism, and the economy. The official daily new COVID case total for today was 101, raising the overall number of COVID cases to 118,321 cases. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

During and after the COVID-19 issue, Prime Minister Hun Sen made a crucial declaration about the repair and reopening of Cambodia's tourism sector. The Prime Minister says in the statement (unofficial translation): ‘It has been 18 months since the Covid-19 crisis has brought disaster to the whole world, in which global tourism, as well as in Cambodia, has been suffering serious negative impact. This has prompted the governments of many countries to open and lock down the region or the country many times while vaccination campaigns are underway to build herd immunity aimed at promoting socio-economic recovery in accordance with the new normal context. Based on the vision of “thinking about the people, thinking about the economy, thinking about the future”, the Royal Government adheres to a proactive and practical spirit with a clear plan to promote Cambodia’s tourism sector by launching a “Roadmap on Rehabilitation Plan of tourism of Cambodia during and after the Covid-19 crisis and the tourism development master plan for the main targets, which are key documents as strategic goals for the future of Cambodia’s tourism sector. At the same time, the need for the gradual resumption of full economic activity is assessed as an emergency and in accordance with the new normal context , as the tourism market situation will be narrower with higher competition in terms of product and service quality, price, confidence in the safety of tourist destinations, measures to control the situation of Covid-19 pandemic, and travel facilitation. These points are key factors for tourists in deciding to choose a tourist destination in a new context. In this regard, the Strategic Plan for the Opening of Vaccine Tourism will be an important strategic document for the launch of gradual resumption of international tourist reception based on the principle of maintaining a balance between socio-economic activities and ensuring the safety and public health with efforts to return as soon as possible to the “new normal” of people’s daily lives. Continue reading: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Residents in Luang Prabang are unhappy with the city's stringent lockdown restrictions, which include the closure of supermarkets and food delivery services. Residents of Luang Prabang City are barred from leaving their houses except in cases of medical emergency, according to the lockdown rules that went into effect earlier this month. Residents may leave their homes to perform critical duties such as shopping for groceries or consumer goods, but only two outings per household per day will be permitted. While supermarkets have been closed and food delivery services have been suspended, fresh markets may remain open as long as Covid-19 preventive measures are in place. Many people have criticized the regulations as being unduly harsh, claiming that they are having problems procuring supplies and risk losing their jobs. One foreign resident in Luang Prabang informed Laotian Times that supermarkets and restaurants had been closed for more than two weeks, making it difficult to buy food. He claimed that the only place he could buy items was a little vegetable stall near his hotel, but that even this booth had run out of stock. "Last week, a business owner opened her shop for me to purchase food, and I received food from her." "However, we are rapidly running out of supplies due to the lack of a food delivery service," the man explained. This round of lockdown, according to another Luang Prabang resident, appears to be the strictest yet. He believes that rather of shutting down delivery services during this time, individuals should be urged to stay at home. "I feel for the restaurants, supermarkets, and food stores that are unable to open, even if I am not as affected by the constraints as others." They don't generate any revenue, and this makes it difficult for people to get food," he explained. Fresh markets are allowed to open in Luang Prabang, according to a mother of three, but they must adhere to Covid-19 prevention procedures, and citizens must go early in the morning. Staying at home with three children has been difficult for her, but she and her family are coping, though she hopes schools will return soon. "Foreign guests who have never visited the city before may find the lockdown difficult to deal with," she warned, noting that delivery services are restricted and that all supermarkets and restaurants are closed. According to a notification issued by the General Director of Luang Prabang Hospital, hospitals in Luang Prabang have began charging patients for the usage of Covid quick testing when seeking general treatment. All individuals, including general patients and their relatives, should be tested for Covid-19 before getting hospital services, according to the warning. At public hospitals in Luang Prabang, a fast test kit will be utilized to conduct the test, which will cost LAK 80,000 each test. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Today, 530 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported across Laos. Over the last 24 hours, 5,597 tests were completed around the country, with 530 new cases verified, according to the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. Across the country, there were 528 cases of community spread and two imported cases. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Phnom Penh City Hall has now stated that city-wide COVID restrictions will remain in place for another two weeks, putting an end to widespread anticipation for the capital's reopening. Furthermore, all pubs and clubs are closed in preparation for what is likely to be a bustling Halloween Weekend. According to an unofficial translation of the document: To combat and prevent the spread of COVID-19 disease, administrative measures have been put in place to temporarily suspend activities, occupations, or businesses at high risk of contracting the disease, as well as to hold private gatherings or gatherings in Phnom Penh for a period of 14 days from October 29, 2021 to November 11, 2021. Businesses that are at risk of distributing Covid-19, such as karaoke, clubs, and discotheques, will remain temporarily banned under Article 2 of the judgment. Furthermore, under Article 3 of the judgment, a private meeting of more than 50 individuals is prohibited, with exceptions. The following are some of the exceptions: Religious or other rites involving family members and relations, as determined by the authorized authorities. Public meetings, gatherings, and meetings of health workers to carry out health measures such as collecting samples for Covid-19 and Covid-19 vaccine. Other emergency medical personnel's meetings. At all levels, the Administrative Unity Command gathers relevant authorities and forces to ensure security, order, and public order. People gathered during a judicial police officer's or a tribunal's sessions. Bringing together a group of civil servants as determined by the appropriate authorities. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

As Cambodia draws closer to reopening travel, tourism, and the economy, the country recorded another another low daily case total today, capping a remarkable 28-day stretch of 'new normal' low case counts. The official daily new COVID case count for today was 109, increasing the overall number of COVID cases to 118,220. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

In support of attempts to combat the Covid-19 outbreak, the Vietnamese government has given Laos a grant of USD 2.21 million as well as medical equipment worth over USD 5,000. Mr. Nguyen Quoc Dung, the Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister, and Mr. Sengphet Houngbounyuang, the Lao Ambassador to Vietnam, attended a handover ceremony on Monday, according to KPL. Mr. Sengphet thanked the Vietnamese government for its tremendous assistance in Laos' efforts to prevent and control the spread of Covid-19. Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, Vietnam has given Laos with monetary donations as well as medical equipment and personnel to aid in the fight against the disease. Both governments have pledged to stand shoulder to shoulder and work together to combat epidemics in their respective countries. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Myanmar's military declined to send a representative, so leaders from Southeast Asian countries began their annual summit without him. Following his junta's failure to fulfill a peace plan agreed upon with ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) made the unusual and exceptional decision to exclude Myanmar's military head Min Aung Hlaing from its summit. According to The Associated Press, this year's summit Chair, Brunei, invited Myanmar's highest-ranking veteran diplomat, Chan Aye, to attend as a non-political envoy, but she declined. Other world leaders, including US President Joe Biden and leaders from China and Russia, will join the three-day talks, which will be held via remote conferencing software. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has dominated summit deliberations, with leaders also discussing improved regional connectivity and collaboration among dialogue partners, as well as other regional and international topics of concern. Thailand Demands Reopening in Southeast Asia According to the Bangkok Post, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha asked other ASEAN members to follow Thailand's lead in reopening their countries in order to restore the region's economies and ensure meaningful execution of the bloc's response to Covid-19. According to him, the bloc must work to mitigate the pandemic's consequences while also learning from it in order to be more robust in the future. "In order to recover its economies, ASEAN should begin reopening and enabling safe travel," he said, adding that the ASEAN Travel Corridor Arrangement Framework should be implemented, with mutual acceptance of vaccines and immunization certificates to ease business travel and, subsequently, tourism. Laos Requests More Cooperation According to the Vientiane Times, Laos' Prime Minister, Dr. Phakham Viphavanh, addressed the conference, expressing heartfelt gratitude to ASEAN member countries for the essential aid and support provided to Laos in coping with the Covid-19 outbreak. He urged member countries to work together even more in the battle against the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of ASEAN centrality, consensus, and solidarity while dealing with outsiders. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Today, 733 new instances of Covid-19 were reported across Laos, with three persons dying to the illness. Over the last 24 hours, 5,507 tests were completed around the country, with 733 new cases verified, according to the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. Across the country, there were 731 cases of community spread and two imported cases. New Deaths On October 26, an 85-year-old man from Dankham Village in Vientiane's Sikhottabong District died of Covid-19 at 103 Hospital. He had been fully immunized with the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine and had underlying problems such as hypertension. A 54-year-old man from Si Muang Village in Vientiane Capital's Sisattanak District died at 103 Hospital yesterday. He had a number of underlying health issues, including diabetes, renal illness, liver cirrhosis, and hypertension. He wasn't immune to Covid-19 because he hadn't been immunized. A 58-year-old man from Phonesivilay Village in Meun Local, Vientiane Province, died this morning at 6 a.m. in a district hospital. He had high blood pressure and had never been vaccinated against Covid-19. Community Spread in Vientiane Capital: Vientiane Capital recorded 358 cases across 165 villages in seven districts. – Saysettha District recorded 80 cases in 29 villages. – Chanthabouly District recorded 36 cases across 17 villages. – Naxaythong District recorded 31 across 14 villages. – Hatsaifong District recorded 19 cases across 14 villages (64 cases in the prison). – Sikhottabong District recorded 33 cases across 20 villages. – Sisattanak District recorded 37 cases across 14 villages. – Xaythany District recorded 58 cases across 23 villages. Community Spread by Province: In Luang Prabang Province, a total of 177 cases of community spread were recorded, with one case in Nambak District. In Luang Prabang City there were 162 cases. Pak Ou District saw eight cases, Nan District saw five cases while Chomphet saw only one case. In Bokeo Province there were 73 cases in 14 villages across two districts. In Savannakhet Province, there were nine cases in three villages across two districts. In Vientiane Province, there were 29 cases recorded in 12 villages across four districts. Champasack Province saw 14 cases today in eight villages across four districts. Khammouane Province saw 17 cases, with 12 in Thakhek, four in Khoun Kham, and one in Yommalath District. Total Cases: Laos now has 6,879 active cases of Covid-19, with 59 confirmed deaths, and 37,751 total cases. Meanwhile, 411 people recovered and were discharged from hospitals around the country yesterday. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Flood warnings have been reissued by the Ministry of Water Resources for the dates of October 27 to November 2, 2021. According to the Ministry of Water Resources, a low pressure system will be in effect from October 27 to 28, and a high pressure system will be in effect from October 29 to November 2. The provinces in the central lowlands will have a minimum temperature of 23-25 oC and a high temperature of 29-31 oC as a result of this condition. Prey Veng, Svay Rieng, Kandal, Takeo, Kampong Speu, Kampong Chhnang, Pursat, and Phnom Penh could see moderate to heavy rain with mixed gusts of wind on October 27-28, which could result in flooding. Rainfall will then be limited to mild to moderate amounts. In the provinces of Dangrek and the Northeastern Highlands, the minimum temperature will be 21-23 ° C and the maximum temperature will be 27-29 ° C, causing flash floods in the provinces of Tbong Khmum and Kampong Cham. Rainfall will then be limited to mild to moderate amounts. The minimum temperature is 22-24 1C and the highest temperature is 28-30 1C in coastal locations. Rain, wind, and high tide will be present on the sea surface, after which the rainfall will be light to moderate only. As previously stated, the public should be informed about potential natural occurrences and pay great attention to them. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

From November 30, Cambodia will adopt a sandbox program that will allow those who are completely vaccinated to visit Sihanoukville, Koh Rong island, and the Dara Sakor Resort in Koh Kong province without having to go through quarantine. Tourists who plan a stay of at least five days at these vacation spots will be eligible for the Quarantine Free Safe Tourism package, which will let them to go anywhere in the country if they test negative for Covid-19. Top Sopheak, a spokesman for the Ministry of Tourism, told Khmer Times yesterday that the Vaccination Tourism plan aims to attract international visitors to the Kingdom by eliminating the need for them to quarantine in hotels. "For these quarantine-free visits, there are two possibilities. One is that international visitors must travel to these destinations as part of a group trip package. The other is for high-end tourists, such as families or small groups," he stated. Visitors must fly directly to Sihanoukville rather than through Phnom Penh International Airport, according to Sopheak. He went on to say that after the five-day tour package is completed, overseas visitors would be allowed to visit the rest of the country at the designated locations after PCR testing shows they are free of Covid-19. In January, the plan will be extended to Siem Reap, according to Sopheak. Upon arrival at the airport, visitors on these vaccine excursions must undergo a brief Covid-19 screening. If the results are negative, individuals are free to travel in "safe tourism" destinations while adhering to severe health precautions. Sopheak also stated that the ministry is investigating the idea of permitting quarantine-free visits from Thailand, which will begin offering this type of tourism on November 1. This comes after Prime Minister Hun Sen urged the ministry and the Foreign Affairs Ministry on October 22 to examine into enabling Thai aviation passengers to enter Cambodia without having to go through quarantine. "The government is working on it right now to see if it's possible to allow Thais and foreign visitors to fly into Thailand without having to go through quarantine," Sopheak added. The reopening of selected places for vaccinated travelers, according to Cambodia Association of Travel Agents president Chhay Sivlin, is a first step toward reviving the tourism sector, which has been hard damaged by the virus for over two years. She claimed that many businesses were harmed during this time due to a decline in tourism as the country battled the terrible epidemic. "I believe that following the government's declaration, private and connected tourism firms will ready to welcome tourists back." Businesses that have not yet done so have more than a month to ready for international tourists, according to Sivlin. According to Kheang Phearom, a spokeswoman for Preah Sihanouk, the sandbox idea is a fantastic method to reopen the country and revive the national economy. "I am quite satisfied with the framework that was just announced," he said, adding that provincial authorities will work harder to ensure that they are ready to welcome back international tourists. "Officials will prepare and teach all people, particularly business owners, to be properly prepared by ensuring standard Covid-19 prevention standards are in place, and we will strengthen services to welcome tourists pleasantly," he added. Hor Boramy, the proprietor of Sweet Dream Koh Rong Hotel, expressed his happiness yesterday at the framework's removal and reopening to international tourists. "Since the Covid-19 epidemic and the tourism industry collapsed, we haven't been able to get any revenue, and business isn't doing well either." "We only get local tourists," he explained. "The framework will begin at the end of next month," he said. "I am thrilled, and I will have my hotel ready and equipped to safe SOP levels to warmly welcome the travelers." Pheang Bun Kea, the owner of the CS Tour firm in Preah Sihanouk province, claimed Wednesday that the epidemic forced him to halt operations due to a shortage of tourists. "I am very optimistic that Vaccination Tourism will revitalize the business in the near future. "I'm going to relaunch my business and rehire all of my previous employees to resume our tour services," he stated. "Under this strategy, I will work with foreign tour organizations to provide services to tourists visiting the Kingdom," he continued. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

As Cambodia gets closer to reopening travel, tourism, and the economy, the country's daily new case total fell to its lowest level since April 5th, capping a remarkable 27-day run of 'new normal' low case counts. The official daily new COVID case count for today was 111, increasing the overall number of COVID cases to 118,111. PM Hun Sen stated 19 days ago, on the 8th of October, that Cambodia will be able to resume its economy across all sectors if the Covid-19 situation following Pchum Ben continues stable for at least 10-15 days, stating: "If the situation does not improve in the next 10 to 15 days, I believe it is necessary to reopen the economy and society in all areas under the new normal paradigm," he said. The Prime Minister declared yesterday that the government has laid the groundwork for Cambodia's economic recovery and a return to a "new normal" by the end of the year. In breaking news, Cambodia's Ministry of Tourism announced yesterday that starting November 30, those who are fully vaccinated will be able to visit Sihanoukville, Koh Rong island, and the Dara Sakor Resort in Koh Kong province without having to go through quarantine, with Siem Reap following in early 2022. This comes on the heels of major developments last week, such as the reopening of the e-Visa scheme for tourists and investors, the relaxation of the quarantine period for incoming travellers, the lifting of the ban on flights from Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, and the introduction of a new QR code system for checking vaccination status, all of which demonstrate the Royal Government's determination to reopen the Kingdom for business as soon as it is safe to do so. In this mood of broad joy over the imminent reopening of the country, however, a note of caution must be struck. COVID has not vanished – far from it – and, while Cambodia is significantly better prepared to handle with the pandemic threat than many other nations due to widespread immunization, it remains a devastating – albeit hopefully controlled – threat. Instead, Cambodians must focus on adapting to the ‘new normal,' rather than expecting the Kingdom to return to life as it was before COVID. Although residents of Phnom Penh are waiting to see if the long-standing ban on mass meetings will be removed tonight, now is not the time for celebrations; rather, it is the moment to respect the 'new normal' way of life and recognize that the COVID pandemic is still being contained. With 19,557 instances being imported, the total number of Community Cases is now 98,554. Today, ten imported cases were announced, maintaining the trend of importing few instances. Cambodia also revealed 7 more deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in Cambodia to 2,758. As active cases decreased, 264 recoveries were announced, bringing the total number of active COVID cases in Cambodia to 1,555. The strategy of limited fast testing for COVID-19, which is the first step in transitioning away from the pandemic to the 'endemic stage' of the COVID-19 issue, is linked to the dramatic downward trend in reported cases. This approach has drastically reduced the number of cases recorded, and when combined with the current policy of not providing any provincial or ‘Delta' numbers, it is now difficult to determine the exact extent of COVID in Cambodia. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

Authorities in Laos have been urged to examine the source of inexplicable fireballs that have been seen in the Mekong River by a Thai person and the leader of a group of conspiracy theorists. Mr. Somphop Khamsavath, a Thai national, filed documents to the Laos Embassy in Bangkok yesterday, claiming that the fireballs were caused by humans. Naga fireballs, also known as "Mekong lights" or "Ghost lights," are a natural phenomena that occurs every year near the Mekong River. Glowing balls are believed to soar high into the air from the sea, according to reports. They are described as having a reddish-orange tint and ranging in size from specks to basketballs. According to local tradition, the Mekong River is home to a Phaya Nak, or mythical enormous serpent that produces fireballs. Somphop has demanded that Lao authorities investigate the facts surrounding the source of Naga fireballs in Laos, according to Thairath Online. Mr. Somphop Khamsavath, a Thai national and administrator of the Facebook group "Disproving the Naga Fireballs," filed papers with Lao authorities claiming that the Naga fireballs are generated by flare gun ammo being fired in various Lao communities. Mr. Somphop, who was intrigued by the occurrence, claimed he and his crew had been to Laos to watch the so-called Naga fireballs and collected evidence to indicate that they were man-made. Mr. Somphop stated, "Our evidence suggests that flare guns were fired by local inhabitants in four villages along the Mekong River bank in Pak Ngum District, Vientiane Capital, and six villages in Bolikhamxay Province, Laos, to deceive Thai people into believing the Naga Fireballs were real." Mr. Somphop stated, "Our group has been monitoring and collecting information on the source of Naga fireballs for over 10 years, but no one has ever been able to film a Naga fireball erupting from the river clearly." The Lao government has been silent on the issue. Credit Source: The Laotian Times

In the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, the Lao Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare is collaborating with Bokeo Province to address the issue of illegal labor practices. According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare's web page, authorities have begun collecting statistics on the number of local and migrant laborers residing in the economic zone, as well as analyzing their well-being. Thousands of unauthorized migrant laborers living and working in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bokeo Province are in breach of labor rules and regulations, according to Mrs. Baikham Khatthiya, Minister of Labour and Social Welfare. "Authorities have been unable to collect proper data on the true number of Lao and foreign laborers employed in the Golden Triangle SEZ to yet." Minister Baikham Khatthiya remarked, "Our ministry is now conducting a thorough examination into the number of undocumented and legal personnel." Mrs. Baikham Khatthiya added, "We also want to gather data on labor contracts, as well as salary level, social welfare, and other sorts of social protection." Labor registration will be undertaken across the country, according to Mrs. Baikham, to ensure that all local and migrant workers are included in the government's labor database. Credit Source: The Laotian Times

Today, Laos has documented 770 new Covid-19 cases around the country, with three new deaths. Over the last 24 hours, 6,109 tests were completed around the country, with 770 new cases verified, according to the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. Across the country, there were 766 cases of community spread and four imported cases. New Deaths Today, three fresh deaths were reported in three provinces. A 77-year-old man from Salavanh Province died at the Salavanh Provincial Hospital yesterday after receiving the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine. Diabetes, hypertension, and TB had all been plaguing him. A 57-year-old laborer from Vientiane Capital's Sikottabong District died at Mittaphab Hospital yesterday after not being inoculated against Covid-19. He had high blood pressure, anemia, and end-stage renal failure. After receiving a brain injury, a 4-year-old from Phosy Village, Naxaythong District, Vientiane Capital, died at a hospital in Vientiane Province. After his death, a covid test revealed a positive result. Community Spread in Vientiane Capital: Vientiane Capital recorded 337 cases across 101 villages in eight districts. – Saysettha District recorded 69 cases in 21 villages. – Chanthabouly District recorded 37 cases across 18 villages. – Naxaythong District recorded four across three villages. – Hatsaifong District recorded 16 cases across 13 villages. – Sikhottabong District recorded 47 cases across 14 villages. – Sisattanak District recorded 62 cases across 15 villages. – Xaythany District recorded 41 cases across 13 villages. – Sangthong District recorded 15 cases across three villages. Community Spread by Province: In Luang Prabang Province, a total of 160 cases of community spread were recorded, with nine cases in Nambak District. In Luang Prabang City there were 140 cases. Pak Ou District saw nine cases while Ngoi District saw two cases. In Bokeo Province there were 41 cases in nine villages across two districts. In Savannakhet Province, there were three cases in three villages across one district. In Vientiane Province, there were 135 cases recorded in 33 villages across five districts. Champasack Province saw 20 cases today in eight villages across three districts. Khammouane Province saw nine cases, with eight in Thakhek, and one in Hinboun District. Total Cases: Laos now has 6,909 active cases of Covid-19, with 56 confirmed deaths, and 37,018 total cases. Meanwhile, 497 people recovered and were discharged from hospitals around the country yesterday. Vaccination Rate First dose vaccinations have now reached 43.66% of the eligible population, while second dose vaccinations have now reached 37.47%. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

Cambodia was ranked among the top countries with the highest immunization rates, according to a statistical website. Cambodia is ranked 9th in the world for immunization rates, according to the website https://ourworldindata.org. While the figures vary, Singapore and Cambodia are the only ASEAN countries in the top ten, and two of just three Asian countries. Cambodia vaccinated 76.52 percent of its population, according to data entered onto the website on October 23. According to the most recent figures, the country vaccinated more than 13 million people out of a total population of more than 17 million. With such a high percentage of the people vaccinated, Cambodia still trails Singapore in terms of percentage of the population immunized. Singapore has a vaccination rate of 79.63 percent, making it the seventh most vaccinated country in the world and the first among ASEAN countries, according to websites. While some vaccination initiatives in the country are still in the early stages, others appear to be stagnating. According to a Khmer Times story, the adult and teenage campaigns targeting persons aged 12 to 17 years have slowed, with the adult campaign reaching 99.81 percent of the target 10 million people and the adolescent campaign remaining at 90.72 percent of the target 1,966,931. Despite the setbacks, the Royal Government's rigorous immunization effort has resulted in progress toward the "new normal" in the country. Cambodia's tourist, hotel, and commercial sectors are anticipating a comeback from the pandemic-induced recession, with the scheduled reopening of the country in November facing no problems thus far. Credit Source: Khmer Times Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

On October 25, 2021, the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology released a weather notification, confirming the possibility of floods in 14 Cambodian capitals and provinces. The risk scenario in Phnom Penh, Prey Veng, Svay Rieng, Kandal, Takeo, Kampong Speu, Kampong Chhnang, Pursat, and Kampong Thom was described in the statement. An active low pressure system in the South China Sea is expected to develop into a depression or typhoon on October 25, 2021, and hit southern Vietnam on October 27, 2021. This will then reach Cambodia's southern region. The weather in Cambodia from October 27 to 28, 2021 will be as follows, according to the forecast: 1: Lowlands: Cloudy sky with moderate to severe rain and flooding in Phnom Penh, Prey Veng, Svay Rieng, Kandal, Takeo, Kampong Speu, and Kampong Chhnang. Provinces of Pursat and Kampong Thom. 2. Dangrek Plateau and Cardamom Mountains: Mondul is experiencing cloudy sky with moderate to heavy rain, strong gusts, and flooding. Provinces of Kiri, Tbong Khmum, and Kampong Cham. 3. Coastal areas: Flooding is expected in Kampot and Sihanoukville provinces due to mostly cloudy sky and moderate to heavy rain coupled with gusts. On the sea surface, there will be rain, wind, and big waves. Due to the aforementioned meteorological circumstances, the general public should be aware and use particular caution to avoid any potential incidents. The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology has been keeping a careful eye on this natural occurrence and will provide additional information if climatic change occurs. Credit Source: Khmer Times

In a remarkable run of 26 days of 'new normal' low case counts, Cambodia today posted its lowest daily new case total since April 5th, as the country inches closer to restoring travel and the economy. The official daily new COVID case total for today was 112, increasing the overall number of COVID cases to 118,000. PM Hun Sen stated 18 days ago, on the 8th of October, that Cambodia will be able to resume its economy across all sectors if the Covid-19 situation following Pchum Ben continues stable for at least 10-15 days, stating: "If the situation does not improve in the next 10 to 15 days, I believe it is necessary to reopen the economy and society in all areas under the new normal paradigm," he said. The Prime Minister declared today that Cambodia will enable quarantine-free entrance for air travelers from Thailand, while no precise date has been specified. This comes on the heels of last week's surprising developments, which included the re-opening of the e-Visa scheme for tourists and investors, the relaxation of the quarantine period for incoming travellers, the lifting of the ban on flights from Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, and the introduction of a new QR code system for checking vaccination status, all of which demonstrate the Royal Government's determination to reopen the Kingdom for business as soon as it is safe to do so. The Prime Minister also stated today that the government has laid the groundwork for Cambodia's economic recovery and a return to a "new normal" by the end of the year. In this mood of broad joy over the imminent reopening of the country, however, a note of caution must be struck. COVID has not vanished – far from it – and, while Cambodia is significantly better prepared to handle with the pandemic threat than many other nations due to widespread immunization, it remains a devastating – albeit hopefully controlled – threat. Instead, Cambodians must focus on adapting to the 'new normal,' rather than expecting the Kingdom to revert to life as it was pre-COVID. It is not yet time for parties and large gatherings; rather, it is time to accept the "new normal" way of life and recognize that the COVID pandemic must be contained for the time being. There are presently 98,454 Community Instances, with 19,546 cases being imported. Today, ten imported cases were announced, maintaining the trend of importing few instances. Cambodia also revealed 8 more deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in Cambodia to 2751. As active cases decreased, 263 recoveries were announced, bringing the total number of active COVID cases in Cambodia to 1715. The strategy of limited fast testing for COVID-19, which is the first step in transitioning away from the pandemic to the 'endemic stage' of the COVID-19 issue, is linked to the dramatic downward trend in reported cases. This approach has drastically reduced the number of cases recorded, and when combined with the current policy of not providing any provincial or ‘Delta' numbers, it is now difficult to determine the exact extent of COVID in Cambodia. Credit Source: Khmer Times Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

Laos' health authorities have introduced a new upgraded Covid-19 immunization certificate with a QR Code, allowing for increased legitimacy and digital verification. The QR code on the Covid-19 immunization certificate, according to a report by the Center for Information and Education for Health, will ensure that the certificates are legitimate and can be more easily checked, as well as being more useful while traveling overseas. The new QR Code vaccination certificate was unveiled last Friday in the presence of Dr. Phonepaseuth Ounaphom, Director-General of the Department of Hygiene and Health Promotion. The Ministry of Health developed the QR code on the Covid-19 immunization certificate in partnership with the World Health Organization and other development partners to aid in verification and record-keeping. Before the QR code is developed and printed on the back of the vaccination certificate, the recipients' personal data and vaccine information will be entered into the Covid-19 vaccine database. A vaccination certificate with a QR code will now be given to all new vaccine recipients. Those who have already been vaccinated against Covid-19 and obtained a vaccination certificate without a QR Code will need to wait for instructions on how to obtain a new version. Credit Source: The Laotian Times

Is it time for Laos' schools to reopen? What kind of future awaits us if schools remain closed? Covid-19 has had a significant impact on our lives. Many people have struggled with their mental health during this time. At every level, the financial situation has been difficult. Everyone has been affected by the pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns and restrictions, which are approaching their 200th day. Our children, however, who are the most vulnerable members of society, are frequently the ones who suffer the most. Schools give a wealth of opportunities for pupils. Schools provide even more than the essential education and a safe environment. They care for and safeguard our children. They give developmental milestones that occur spontaneously and in the presence of peers, which can be missed when children stay at home. A school may also be a safe haven during stressful times, when emotions are running high, and it can be the first step toward getting kids the care and support they require when life at home is difficult. The problems are even more serious in emerging countries like Laos. While many children throughout the world have access to online schooling, this has posed a significant difficulty in Laos, where many people lack access to the technology needed for remote study. Some have, but for the most, education ends when schools close. Children who are not enrolled in school must be looked for. As a result, people who stay at home to care for their children are unable to work. In certain cases, this implies that the children are forced to work alongside their parents. When this occurs, there is concern that the longer it goes on, the less likely kids will return to school when it reopens. And a generation of children is missing out on a critical component of their education, both now and in the future. That isn't all, though. Children in the poor world who are denied the opportunity to attend school are at a higher risk of child marriage, sexual abuse, and pregnancy, according to studies. Our children are still at risk after schools were closed for a substantial portion of this year, as well as for several weeks during the onset of the pandemic last year. It's tough to strike a balance between virus prevention and the challenges that keeping them out of classrooms causes. While everyone wants to keep our kids safe – especially because they are largely unvaccinated – the government must make a judgment. Last year, we witnessed how well schools kept our children safe. Safe on school grounds, safe by encouraging handwashing, safe by wearing masks, and safe by using social distancing techniques. In comparison, Laos has fared well in the face of the epidemic. We have been spared, despite the fact that several countries have endured hundreds of thousands of deaths. 190 of the 223 countries across the world have experienced more deaths as a percentage of their population than we have, thanks to some outstanding decision making, a young population, plenty of space, and the major wave only striking after the immunization campaign was already well established. Any country must strike a difficult balance. Different countries around the world have attempted to strike a balance between the economy, personal freedom, mental health, and education while avoiding the dangers of Covid-19. And Laos had to think about things that other countries didn't have to think about. It is a landlocked country with a poor infrastructure that makes getting around difficult, especially during the rainy season. The healthcare system lacks most of the technology and facilities found in affluent countries, and the economic crisis brought on by the significant decline in GDP has made matters much more difficult. People are justifiably fearful of this virus, which has wreaked havoc in recent months, but as more of us are vaccinated and knowledge of the virus and how to treat people infected with it grows, the risks diminish. We're observing that deaths among folks who don't have any underlying diseases are uncommon. Even fewer people who have been fully immunized are affected. And it is because of this awareness that countries all over the world are re-prioritizing education. As more schools open around the world, children will be able to meet their friends, learn their lessons, and be watched over and protected by their teachers and school, allowing them to recover from this traumatic period and resume their developmental goals, while their families will be able to rest assured that their children are safe and happy. For the sake of our children, I hope that they will be allowed to return to school soon in Laos. Credit Source: The Laotian Times

Today, Laos reported 615 new Covid-19 cases and one fatality across the country, with a substantial number of cases in Luang Prabang. Over the last 24 hours, 5,741 tests were completed around the country, with 615 new cases verified, according to the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. Across the country, there were 612 cases of community spread and three imported cases. New Death A 75-year-old woman from Keooudom District, Vientiane Province, succumbed to Covid-19 on 24 October at a hospital in Phonhong District. She had not been vaccinated against Covid-19 and suffered from underlying conditions including diabetes and hypertension. Community Spread in Vientiane Capital: Vientiane Capital recorded 114 cases across 56 villages in six districts. – Saysettha District recorded 21 cases in 13 villages. – Chanthabouly District recorded 16 cases across eight villages. – Hatsaifong District recorded one case across one village. – Sikhottabong District recorded 30 cases across 17 villages. – Sisattanak District recorded 27 cases across eight villages. – Xaythany District recorded 15 cases across nine villages. Four more cases are now under investigation. Community Spread by Province: In Luang Prabang Province, a total of 229 cases of community spread were recorded, with ten cases in Nambak District. In Luang Prabang City there were 207 cases (165 at a prison facilty). Pak Ou District saw nine cases while Ngoi District saw three cases. In Bokeo Province there were 48 cases in Houayxay District. In Savannakhet Province, there were three cases in Kaysone Phomvihane City. In Vientiane Province, there were 98 cases recorded, with 23 in Keooudom, 33 in Kasy, 16 in Thoulakhom, three in Phonhong, and 12 in Viengkham District. Champasack Province saw 12 cases today, with seven in Pakse City, three in Phonthong, and two in Pachiangchaleunsouk District. Khammouane Province saw 48 cases, with 47 in Thakhek, and one in Hinboun District. Total Cases: Laos now has 7,088 active cases of Covid-19, with 53 confirmed deaths, and 36,248 total cases. Meanwhile, 381 people recovered and were discharged from hospitals around the country yesterday. Source: The Laotian Times

More than a month after flooding flooded parts of Banteay Meanchey, the province is still reeling as more families are displaced by the latest rains. Flooding continues in three districts of Banteay Meanchey, forcing 1,358 individuals to flee and 464 families to relocate till October 24. Flood and retreating waters from Thailand flooded to three of Poipet's sangkat thrice, according to Poipet City Mayor Keat Hul. People in such areas faced difficulties, and their homes and crops were harmed as a result. As the storm retreated, the authorities relocated 400 households to five other areas, and 29 people were able to return to their homes. Rath Dasinang, the Governor of Mongkul Borey District, claimed the district had been flooded in ten communes. Authorities evacuated 309 families, affecting 2,821 families. Floodwaters also wreaked havoc on 8,195 rice farms. Hul Raya, the Governor of Serei Saophoan, acknowledged that the flood had also affected the capital city. 649 people were forced to flee their houses as a result of the flooding. Roads were also impacted, as were a number of schools. Source: Khmer News