Asean Covid-19 cases and deaths up sharply
Southeast Asia saw the highest number of Covid-19-related deaths in over three weeks, as well as a rise in new cases on Thursday, according to collated data.
The region reported 25,820 new cases on Thursday, higher than Wednesday’s 22,747, while deaths rose to 537, up from the previous day’s 507.
The number of Covid-19 cases in Asean since the outbreak crossed 4.09 million, while total deaths climbed to 80,239.
Cambodia reported 729 new cases and six deaths on Thursday, bringing cumulative cases in the country to 32,189 and total fatalities to 236. Disease control measures have been announced in Phnom Penh to tackle increasing infections. Entertainment venues, fitness centres, museums and other places have been ordered to close, while public assembly of more than 15 people is prohibited.
Laos reported nine new cases on Thursday, taking cumulative cases in the country to 1,943 patients. So far, 1,654 people have been cured and discharged.
The Laotian Department of Health has ordered a halt on importing Covid-19 vaccine for sale in the country by private companies to avoid disparity in distribution. The department assured that the government was capable of procuring enough vaccine for the population.