Virus treatment coverage available from Social Security
The Social Security Office is ready to insure anyone who becomes infected with the coronavirus to cover their medical bills.
Its secretary-general Todsaphon Kritwongwiman said on Thursday (February 6) the novel coronavirus outbreak that originated in China was no longer “a distant matter” for Thais.
“People with a fever, a bad cough, sore throat, runny nose or difficulty breathing should put on a facemask and go see a doctor immediately, because this disease carries a high risk of death,” he said.
“The SSO has coordinated with 242 hospitals and medical networks nationwide so that treatment, preventive measures and proper procedures are in place for insured victim. The Ministry of Public Health wants no one to have to bear their own treatment costs.”
Todsaphon advised people to take care of their health – washing the hands frequently with soap, using a handkerchief when coughing or sneezing and a facemask in crowds, exercising regularly and getting enough rest.
Anyone who has regular contact with Chinese tourists should be even more cautious, he said.
Questions can be posed via the Department of Disease Control’s 1422 hotline, the Medical Service System Management Bureau at 02 956 2498 or 1506, and any provincial social security office, he said.