New cases take Thailand's Covid-19 total above 200 (Updated)
Thirty-five new cases of novel coronavirus (Covid-19) infections in Thailand -- 29 of them linked to a boxing stadium and entertainment venues -- have taken Thailand's total number of Covid-19 patients to 212.
Dr Suwannachai Wattanayingcharoen, director-general of the Department of Disease Control, said on Wednesday (March 18) that this was the highest number of confirmed cases in a 24-hour period.
Of the 35 confirmed cases, 29 patients had links to previous cluster cases:13 people hailing from Bangkok, Khon Kaen Samut Prakan, Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Kalasin, and Roi Et provinces got infected from Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.
Four got infected from entertainment venues in the Thong Lor district of northern Bangkok
Twelve patients had close contacts with previously confirmed cases -- most of them co-workers.
Another group consisted of six cases: one had returned from Cambodia, four were working closely with foreigners as a receptionist, waiters, and a residential juristic person. In one case, the source of infection is still being investigation.
Two new patients are in a critical condition, bringing the number of critical cases to three.
A 49-year-old Thai man in Surat Thani province developed high fever and flu-like symptoms on March 8. He was later diagnosed with pneumonia and kidney dysfunction.
A 67- year-old Belgian man in Phetchabun was diagnosed with pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. He is on a ventilator.
One patient has recovered and been discharged.
As of March 18, the total number of confirmed cases is 212; 169 are under medical care, 42 have recovered and been discharged, and there has been one death.
Of the 83 people who have returned from Italy, 77 at Sattahip Navy base and six in hospital have tested negative but still need to quarantine up to 14 days since arriving.