Thailand to review lockdown relaxation measures

BANGKOK: Thailand's Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) on Thursday said the government will review its lockdown relaxation measures on Friday before drafting the next round of easing disease control measures and reopening of big premises scheduled on May 17.

The second round of relaxation measures will involve the re-opening of big businesses catering to large numbers of people.

However, if the number of infections soars, the government will take back the restrictions and send everyone home, warned Dr. Taweesin Visanuyothin, CCSA spokesman.

The government first took small steps in easing health control measures with the first round of relaxation and reopening of small premises on Sunday.

The second round of easing and reopening of bigger premises with many visitors would require the cooperation of people and operators, especially in regards to social distancing rules, Taweesin said.

Thursday saw three new cases of COVID-19 and zero death in Thailand.

Total infections now stand at 2,992.

The death toll remains at 55, with total recoveries at 2,772 and 165 still in hospital.