Health
Thai man’s mysterious skin blisters revealed as ‘skin worms’
A shocking Facebook post showing a man's hand covered in painful, pus-like blisters has left many people guessing, only for doctors to reveal the bizarre cause: skin worm larvae, also known as Cutaneous Larva Migrans (CLM). The unusual condition, often referred to as "skin worms,"...
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Thailand launches free alcohol quality tests in 3 provinces
Thailand’s Excise Department is stepping up its efforts to improve the quality and safety of locally produced alcohol by launching a groundbreaking initiative aimed at ensuring community-made liquor meets safety standards. The Community Liquor Lab on Wheels programme, announced yesterday, June 5, by Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul, will deploy mobile laboratories to Lampang, Sakon …
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Thai healthcare scheme stable with 46 billion baht in reserves
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has assured the public that the 30-baht “gold card” Universal Healthcare Coverage scheme remains financially stable, with hospitals holding reserve funds of 46 billion baht after liabilities. During a meeting of the National Health Security Office (NHSO) board, Somsak addressed concerns regarding hospital budget deficits, which some attribute to the …
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Does your health insurance still cover Covid-19? What expats in Thailand need to check
Covid-19 cases are rising again in Thailand, with the Ministry of Public Health reporting that five provinces with the highest Covid-19 infections, with a national total of 324,692 cases and 69 fatalities. The spike comes as the rainy season begins and schools reopen, and the virus is expected to keep spreading, especially in places like Chiang Mai, where …
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7 Tips for choosing the best health insurance in Thailand for expats
Many expats in Thailand don’t give health insurance much thought because the country’s healthcare system is excellent (arguably the best in Southeast Asia) and, for the most part, affordable. But affordability doesn’t mean it’s cheap, and it certainly doesn’t mean medical bills can’t add up quickly. Expat health insurance is still one of the most …
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Your guide to the best place for liposuction in Bangkok
Many people struggle with stubborn body fat that just won’t go away, no matter how clean they eat or how often they hit the gym. It’s a common frustration: putting in the work, seeing overall progress, but still dealing with unwanted fat in areas like the abdomen, thighs, or arms. If you are looking to …
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Thailand’s meth crisis sparks mental health fears
Thailand is battling a full-blown methamphetamine (meth) epidemic, with 1.5 million users nationwide and hundreds of thousands suffering serious mental health effects, according to bombshell new research unveiled this week. The data, released by the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), paints a grim picture of widespread meth use and the severe impact it’s having on Thai society, …
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Syphilis surge grips Phuket as tourism booms again
A shocking surge in syphilis cases has hit Phuket, with infections now reported in all three districts of the island province. Health officials are sounding the alarm as the rise coincides with the post-pandemic rebound in tourism and a return to riskier sexual behaviour. “Youths remain a high-risk group, but syphilis can affect people of all genders …
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How one hospital visit in Thailand could cost more than your whole trip
Thailand is a favourite spot for travellers who want to enjoy more while spending less. From cheap street food to low-cost hotels and fun attractions, it’s easy to stretch your budget here. But there’s one thing many people don’t think about—a sudden hospital visit. It can cost more than your whole trip. You might save …
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Monsoon season in Thailand: Is your health insurance ready for the unexpected?
Thailand’s rainy season brings heavy rain that helps the land but also causes health problems. Flooded roads can lead to accidents, and standing water can spread illnesses like dengue fever. It can also be harder to get medical help quickly. In this article, you’ll learn about the health risks during the monsoon season and why …
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Chon Buri hospital declares war on big tobacco and e-cigs
A Chon Buri hospital has gone full throttle in the fight against smoking, blasting Big Tobacco and vaping in a fiery World No Tobacco Day event. Somdet Phra Boromma Ratchathewi Hospital in Sriracha joined the global war on smoking yesterday, May 30, hosting a dynamic event for World No Tobacco Day at the Sri Sawarinthira …
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Thailand braces as new Covid variant NB.1.8.1 rises fast
Thailand’s health experts are keeping a sharp eye on a new Covid-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, which is rapidly gaining ground and is expected to become the dominant strain in the country soon. Dr Yongyot Thummavudhi, director-general of the Department of Medical Sciences (DMSC), revealed yesterday, May 29, that the World Health Organisation (WHO) is actively monitoring …
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Stretching into serenity: Pattaya Beach starts yoga countdown
Sun, sand, and salutations — Pattaya Beach transformed into a haven of calm as hundreds gathered to launch the countdown to the International Day of Yoga in a spirited celebration of wellness, unity, and global harmony. Marking “25 Days to International Day of Yoga,” Pattaya City joined forces with the Indian Association of Pattaya for …
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A rooftop evening of art, cuisine & connection at Sole Mio Boutique Hotel & Wellness
Rooftop views, summer bites, and creative sparks await at Sole Mio Boutique Hotel & Wellness this June. As the next chapter of the Soul & Sole Sunset Journeys unfolds, guests are invited to paint the flavour through an evening spent on the rooftop, featuring tartare tastings, signature cocktails, live art, and acoustic music, all set …
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Denied a visa extension in Thailand? Here’s how travel insurance can help
Denied a visa extension in Thailand? It can be a stressful and confusing experience. Immigration rules are strict, and even a small mistake, like missing documents, overstaying a visa, or not showing enough funds, can lead to a denial. If this happens, you may need to leave the country quickly or face unexpected costs. This …
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Why retirees in Thailand are choosing long-term health insurance over quick fixes
Retirees in Thailand are increasingly seeing the importance of health insurance in protecting their well-being during retirement. With insurance requirements for retirement visas and rising healthcare costs, many are moving away from short-term plans and choosing long-term coverage. Long-term health insurance gives retirees peace of mind by covering age-related health issues, providing access to quality …
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Deadly flu surge sparks star-backed vaccine push in Pattaya
Bangkok Hospital Pattaya has launched a high-profile vaccine campaign to combat influenza following Thailand’s deadly flu outbreak earlier this year. Held in the lobby of Building E, the BDMS Preventive Vaccine event drew attention not only for its critical public health message, but also for its star power. Thai actor Art Phasut Banyam and his …
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Expat moms-to-be: Navigating maternity insurance plans in Thailand
Expecting a baby while living abroad can be exciting and a little overwhelming, especially for expat moms-to-be in Thailand. Maternity insurance is important because it helps cover the high costs of private hospital care and gives you peace of mind during pregnancy and childbirth. Many expats find it tricky to understand the different insurance plans, …
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How Thailand’s healthcare system compares to the U.S. and Europe for expats
If you’re moving abroad, healthcare is one of the most important things to think about. Many expats choose Thailand because it offers good medical care at a lower cost than in the US or Europe. Private hospitals in Thailand are modern and affordable and have English-speaking doctors, making them a popular choice. In this article, …
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Why couples worldwide are choosing Thailand for fertility treatment
The discreet queues at Thailand fertility clinics aren’t included in your standard travel or even expat guide. But if you walk inside one of its top reproductive centres, you’ll see that for many couples struggling with infertility, the country is where parenthood begins. Every year, thousands of couples from around the world board long-haul flights …
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Thailand tightens medical cannabis rules: Prescription-only flowers
Thailand’s Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM) has announced stricter regulations on cannabis, allowing the sale of cannabis flowers solely for medical use with a valid prescription. The move aims to crack down on recreational misuse while supporting legal medical treatments. DTAM’s director-general, Somruek Chungsaman, revealed the updated Public Health Ministry notification today, …
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Nomad insurance vs. Thai health insurance: what should expats in Thailand choose?
Expats in Thailand can use public hospitals or private healthcare, but most choose insurance to avoid expensive bills. If you’re staying long-term or working here, it’s important to pick the right type of insurance. This helps you get good medical care and keeps you in line with visa rules, like for the Retirement Visa, Long-Term …
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Thinking of retiring in Thailand long-term? Here’s your health checklist before the move
Thinking of retiring in Thailand long-term? Thailand is a popular choice for retirees because of its beautiful landscapes, warm climate, and affordable living. Cities like Chiang Mai and coastal areas offer a relaxed lifestyle with friendly communities. The country also has great healthcare, with modern hospitals and skilled doctors at lower prices than in Western …
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Thailand and Maldives seal health boost pact in Geneva
Thailand and the Maldives have sealed a landmark deal to boost public health collaboration, with bold plans to strengthen the Maldives’ primary healthcare and regulatory systems — all signed and sealed during a high-profile global summit in Switzerland. The agreement was inked today, May 21, at the World Health Assembly in Geneva. Thailand’s Deputy Minister …
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Super spreader Covid variant rips through Thailand
A new Covid-19 variant is sweeping through Thailand at breakneck speed, with infections skyrocketing and vulnerable groups most at risk. Health authorities are on high alert as the XEC variant, a descendant of Omicron, spreads nearly seven times faster than seasonal influenza. Since January 1, the Public Health Ministry has recorded 108,891 infections and 27 …
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Phuket shopper horrified by squirming surprise in salted fish
Nothing says “good morning” like finding live worms wriggling in your breakfast. That’s exactly what happened to one unfortunate shopper in Phuket who made a stomach-churning discovery in a serving of fried salted fish bought from a local shop. The shocking incident, which quickly went viral, sparked a wave of online outrage and renewed calls …
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Is private health insurance in Thailand worth it? Real costs vs risks explained
Thailand has a strong healthcare system with both public and private options. Public hospitals offer affordable care, but many people, including expats, choose private health insurance for faster service, modern facilities, and more treatment choices. To decide if private health insurance is worth it, it’s important to understand the real costs and the risks of …
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DKSH earns top honours at 2025 Healthcare Asia Medtech Awards
DKSH Business Unit Healthcare, a strategic healthcare solutions partner and leading provider of Market Expansion Services for pharmaceutical, over-the-counter (OTC), consumer health and medical device companies, has received a major accolade for its efforts in bringing healthcare to all patients in Thailand. At the 2025 Healthcare Asia Medtech Awards ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, the company …
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What you actually get for US$2 a day with SafetyWing insurance
SafetyWing is a popular travel and health insurance provider that offers affordable coverage for digital nomads, remote workers, and long-term travellers. For just US$2 a day, their Nomad Insurance plan gives you essential protection, including emergency medical care, medical evacuation, trip interruption support, and coverage for lost luggage or travel delays. With automatic monthly renewals, …
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MedPark Hospital’s campaign to encourages gastrointestinal cancer screening
This May, MedPark Hospital invites the public to take proactive steps toward better health through its latest campaign, “Stay Healthy, Stay Safe from Cancer,” promoting early detection and regular screening, especially for colorectal cancer. As one of the most common and increasingly diagnosed cancers among the Thai population, particularly in individuals aged 45 and above, …
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Cambodia, Laos ban Thai livestock over anthrax fears
Cambodia and Laos have temporarily halted the importation of livestock and related products from Thailand to prevent the spread of anthrax. According to China’s Xinhua News Agency, Cambodia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries has implemented this precautionary measure and is closely monitoring the anthrax situation in Thailand. The ministry stated that while there are …
