Thailand reports 33 new coronavirus cases, 3 deaths Sunday

A woman wearing a protective face mask rides her cart during the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) outbreak in Bangkok on Saturday. (Reuters photo)

Thailand reported 33 new coronavirus infections on Sunday, for a total of 2,551 cases, as well as three more deaths, taking the nation's toll to 38.

Two Thai men aged 74 and 44, and a woman aged 65 died, said Taweesilp Visanuyothin, a spokesman for the government's Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).

The number of confirmed new cases was lower than the 45 recorded on Saturday, and marks the fifth straight day of declines since the 111 recorded on April 8. Because a relatively small number of people have been tested, however, it is impossible to say how far and how fast the virus is spreading, and it is essential to maintain frequent hand washing -- for 20 seconds -- and social distancing. The peak number of confirmed cases so far was the 188 recorded on March 22.

Screenshot from http://covid19.ddc.moph.go.th/en

Bangkok reported the most new infections -- 14 -- followed by Yala (5), Phuket (4), Pattana (3), Narathiwat and Samut Songkram (2 each). Chon Buri, Loei and Nakhon Si Thammarat each recorded one new case. A second case was recorded in Nakhon Phanom over the weekend.

The country has found virus cases in 68 provinces. Ang Thong, Bung Karn, Chai Nat, Kamphaeng Phet, Nan, Phichit, Ranong, Sing Buri and Trat have yet to report infections, according to the CCSA.

As the traditional Thai New Year will start on Monday, Dr Taweesilp called for no water splashing as it would spread the virus in the country.

The centre is not imposing a water celebration ban, he said, but is asking everyone to cooperate by not returning to their homes, pouring water to pay respects to the elderly and suspending all religious activities at temples.

The centre on Friday warned of legal action against social gatherings during the Thai Lunar New Year as the country is under the Emergency Decree.

Violators of the prohibition on social gatherings are liable to a fine of up to 100,000 baht and/or a one-year jail term.

The government has deferred the official holidays previously scheduled from Monday to Wednesday. New dates have yet to be decided.