PRIME Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said at 3.45 p.m. today (April 16) after a video meeting of the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration’s (CCSA) executive committee that there will neither be a lockdown nor a curfew to control the new spike in coronavirus cases, Thai Rath newspaper said.
However he added that the opening hours of shops, malls and other business establishments could be reduced.
While admitting that this coronavirus wave could spread to all areas and be more far-reaching, Gen. Prayut urged the public not to panic because all sides are trying to resolve this problem as best as possible.
He added that he is heavy-hearted and troubled by this upswing yet is concerned about the impact on low-income earners.
He also mentioned that he has experience in handling previous rounds of the outbreak which could be adapted to handle this wave but is not working things out alone having listened to doctors and many other parties during the holidays.
In saying that the people of this country suffer together, Gen. Prayut pointed out that when discipline is eased and people go out to have fun what then happens is clearly apparent.
However he was happy that 90% of Thais are now wearing face masks but is concerned about social distancing and the holding of protests which are dangerous.
He urged everyone to not slip up and continue wearing face masks, wash their hands often and maintain social distancing.
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Top: Prime Minister Prayut talking to the press recently. Photo: Thai Rath
Home Page: A field hospital set up at Chiang Mai’s international exhibition and convention centre. Photo: NNT
