Bang Khae vaccination drive begins as Bangkok records 100 new infections

The rollout of Covid-19 vaccines in the Bang Khae district of Bangkok gets underway today, as officials act swiftly to prevent the further spread of the virus. 100 new cases have been recorded in Bangkok in the last 24 hours, which accounts for 69% of Thailand’s new infections. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is overseeing the vaccination drive, which will take place at Bang Khae market and local hospitals.

According to a Bangkok Post report, the BMA plan to vaccinate between 500 and 600 people a day in Bang Khae, up to a total of around 6,000. Market traders and those who have had close contact with them are being prioritised. BMA governor Aswin Kwanmuang says anyone who believes they may have come into contact with infected people can ask for a vaccine at a local hospital.

It’s understood the vaccines are being reserved for those who have tested positive but are asymptomatic, as well as those who test negative. Those experiencing symptoms such as coughing, fever, hypertension, and chest pain will not be vaccinated.

Meanwhile, Chawetsan Namwat from the Department of Disease Control says Bangkok’s new infections are linked to the Bang Khae markets, 6 of which have been closed for deep cleaning. He says when they do re-open, disease prevention measures will be in place and all market traders will need to be vaccinated before their market can re-open.

According to district official Rujira Arin, cleaners have already been appointed to deep clean and disinfect the 6 markets. In addition to the cleaning, work will be carried out to improve ventilation and to clean drainpipes.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post