Ministry tightens preventive measures in Tak amid risk of contagion from Myanmar
The Ministry of Public Health is employing preventive measures against Covid-19 on the border areas of Tak province, as the outbreak in Myanmar is escalating and several Myanmar migrants have been caught trying to slip into Thailand via natural channels such as rivers, canals and mountains.
“These illegal migrants, most of whom are seeking jobs in Thailand, carry high risk of bringing Covid-19 into our country,” said Dr Phanumas Chanwetsakun, Region 2 Public Health inspector. “The Communicable Disease Control Commission in Tak has ordered all border checkpoints to close for all migrants and only allow transportation of goods. We have also increased patrolling personnel with the help of village health volunteers to investigate at community levels. All villagers near the border have been instructed to contact officials immediately if they find strangers or suspicious activities in their neighbourhood.”
Phanumas added that the Tak Public Health Office had ordered all hospitals in the province to survey and catalog their Covid-19 related medical supplies including surgical gowns, cover-all suits, N95 face masks, shoe covers, surgical hoods, long gloves, face shields and surgical masks.
“Initially we found that local hospitals are fully equipped for at least 1-3 months, and have already asked for additional supplies from the ministry’s central stocks in case there are outbreaks in the province,” he added.