Thailand Confirms 2nd Case of Coronavirus from China

BANGKOK, Jan 17 (TNA) – The lab test results confirm the second case of new coronavirus in Thailand, a Chinese tourist from Wuhan, who arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Jan 13, said Thai Public Health Ministry. The Chinese woman was detected by screening on arrival at the airport and has been treated at an isolation ward at a state health facility outside of Bangkok, said Permanent Secretary Sukhum Karnchanapimai. Thai authorities will step up surveillance measures during the Chinese New Year when Chinese tourist arrivals are expected to increase by 50 per cent with direct flights from Wuhan to Thailand’s five international airports. About 1,200-1,400 Chinese tourists from Wuhan arrive in Thailand daily on average. AirAsia and China Southern Airlines will be asked to help screening tourists at their departure. Department of Disease Control chief Suwanchai Wattanayingcharoenchai said his department contacted the Chinese embassy to issue warning for Chinese tourists via WeChat. Travel restriction has not been imposed so far. Thai citizens, who have developed fever after visiting Wuhan can call 1422 to ask for check-ups. Thai tourists, travelling to Wuhan are recommended to avoid visiting markets and hospitals. Thailand earlier confirmed a 61-year-old Chinese tourist from Wuhan, having infected with new coronavirus. The authorities detected her illness through screening at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Jan 8. The minister confirmed that the contraction of the disease did not occur in Thailand. The Chinese woman is now receiving treatment at Bamrasnaradura Infectious Diseases Institute in Nonthaburi. It is expected that she will be able to return home soon. (TNA)