Thailand detects 6 new cases of Omicron XBB.1.16 subvariant and one XBB.1.16.1

Thailand‘s Department of Medical Sciences announced yesterday that it has identified six new cases of the Omicron XBB.1.16 subvariant, as well as one case of the closely related XBB.1.16.1 subvariant. This brings the total number of people in the kingdom infected with the XBB.1.16 subvariant to 34. The department’s director-general, Supakit Sirilak, confirmed that XBB.1.16 is responsible for 9.8% of all new cases identified so far this week.

Supakit also disclosed that a migrant worker who passed away in the Sathon district of Bangkok on Monday, April 17 was found to be infected with the XBB.1.16.1 Omicron subvariant. However, he emphasised that there is no cause for alarm as the deceased individual had not received any Covid-19 vaccinations, suggesting that any strain of the virus could have resulted in his death.

Authorities have reported two additional deaths resulting from Covid infections. In the Chatuchak district of Bangkok, a 52 year old man known as Phakin Charoenjit, was discovered dead on his bed in Chokchai Ruammit Condominiums. His wife informed police that she had last seen him alive on Monday evening before finding his body the following morning, reported Bangkok Post.

In Nong Chok district, a 22 year old man named Nawin Chaowarak was found dead in his room at an apartment on Sakun Di Road. Investigators discovered that the young man had been experiencing fever and chest pain for three to four days prior to his death. He had been residing in the apartment with his girlfriend, and Covid tests conducted on both revealed positive results.

While the Ministry of Public Health is actively monitoring the situation and implementing measures to prevent further spreading of the XBB.1.16 Omicron subvariant, they have urged the public not to panic. Sirilak’s reassurances seek to mitigate alarm and emphasise the importance of Covid vaccinations in reducing the severity and risk of death from any strain of the virus.

Thailand has demonstrated resilience in its management of the Covid pandemic, with a robust healthcare system and ongoing efforts to vaccinate its population. The identification of these new Omicron cases serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of the virus and the need for ongoing vigilance in the fight against its spread.

In the meantime, the Thai government continues to encourage eligible individuals to receive vaccinations promptly and adhere to public health measures, such as social distancing and the use of personal protective equipment. These strategies, along with timely detection and management of new cases, are essential to mitigating the impact of both established and emerging Omicron strains of the Covid virus.

The Department of Medical Sciences remains committed to monitoring and reporting on the developing situation and will keep the public informed of any significant changes. Cooperation between public health authorities, healthcare providers, and the general public is crucial in ensuring the containment of the XBB.1.16 subvariant and maintaining the overall health and safety of the nation.

The situation in Thailand serves as a reminder for countries around the world to remain vigilant in monitoring the virus and its various strains, ensuring that adequate resources and strategies are in place to manage the ongoing pandemic. With a focus on vaccination efforts and public health measures, countries can work together to ultimately overcome the challenges posed by Covid.