Super spreader Covid variant rips through Thailand
XEC variant is 7 times more contagious than common flu, warns health ministry
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 fatalities linked to the strain, most of which have affected the 608 group, a demographic that includes the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, and pregnant women.
Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin confirmed the ministry is ramping up efforts to curb the spread, especially in schools and other high-risk areas.
“We’re focusing resources and personnel to protect vulnerable groups. Educational institutions are a particular concern due to the speed at which this variant spreads.”
While the XEC variant is not considered more severe than previous strains, its rapid transmission poses a significant threat. Children have also been impacted, prompting heightened monitoring in classrooms across the country.
Doctor Teera Woratanarat, from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Medicine, described the XEC strain as “extremely infectious,” spreading at nearly seven times the rate of common flu.
“Covid-19 remains the most widespread infectious disease among all age groups. It affects children, teenagers, working adults, and the elderly alike.”
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has issued warnings to schools to stay alert for potential cluster outbreaks, especially as cases surge among students.
In just the past week, 43,213 new patients have been documented, both inpatients and outpatients, marking a 35.5% jump compared to the previous week.
Recent deaths have been reported in Kanchanaburi, Sukhothai, and Bangkok Noi district, adding to concerns that the virus is regaining momentum, Bangkok Post reported.
Despite a relatively low fatality rate, health officials are urging continued vigilance, mask-wearing in crowded places, and vaccinations for high-risk groups.
With the country now 21 weeks into disease control protocols, officials stress that the fight against Covid is far from over, especially with this latest variant proving so adept at slipping through the cracks.
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