Thailand's leading virologist Dr Yong Puvoravan warns that after the upcoming elections on May 14, the country should prepare for a new wave of Covid-19 infections. He explains in his Facebook post that the virus is becoming seasonal and will likely start spreading during the rainy season. In addition, he expects a surge in infections after schools reopen in mid-May.
According to Dr. Yong, most of the Covid-19 infections found recently in Thailand are subspecies of the XBB family, especially XBB.1.5. However, some cases of XBB.1.16 have also been found in Thailand and experts believe it may be more contagious.
Dr. Yong pointed out that the best way to protect people, especially those at risk, would be to get vaccinated. While the Covid-19 vaccine does not prevent infection, it significantly reduces the severity of symptoms, he said.
Dr. Yong advises people to get vaccinated against Covid annually. Vaccinations must be received before the start of the rainy season, he said.
The current vaccines currently used in Thailand are of the bivalent mRNA type, which includes both the original Wuhan strain and the Omicron strain.
Although the current subtypes of the coronavirus are less dangerous, Dr. Yong pointed out that people who are at risk - those over 60 and who suffer from chronic diseases - should be vaccinated.
