The number of Covid-19 cases has risen in recent months, with 95,357 infections and 14 deaths recorded from Jan 1 to Friday.
Montien Kanasawat, director-general of the Department of Disease Control, said on Saturday the figures came from the DDC’s Digital Disease Surveillance system. The cumulative infection rate was 144.76 per 100,000 people, while the case fatality rate was 0.01%.
He said cases had increased over the past month, alongside rising numbers of other respiratory illnesses, including influenza and RSV.
NB.1.8.1 remained the dominant Covid-19 variant in Thailand. Data from the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data database, compiled by the Department of Medical Sciences, recorded 978 samples from Jan 1, 2025 to July 23.
The NB.1.8.1 variant accounted for 490 samples, or 50.10%, followed by JN.1 at 25.15%, XEC at 8.38% and XFG at 7.77%. Among 48 samples collected between June 19 and July 20, NB.1.8.1 accounted for 56.25%, while JN.1 represented 31.25%.
Dr Montien attributed the rising cases partly to changing weather and the seasonal spread of respiratory diseases, which could lead to clusters in schools, workplaces and communities.
He urged people with respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, a runny nose, headaches or fatigue to rest, reduce close contact with others and wear masks when necessary.
Dr Direk Khampaen, deputy director-general of the department, advised people to follow the principle of “rest when sick, reduce close contact”, wash their hands frequently and keep indoor spaces well ventilated.
Those with breathing difficulties, chest pain or reduced consciousness should seek medical care immediately, he said.