Health authorities in Thailand no longer regard COVID-19 as a dangerous communicable disease, but those who test positive are asked to stay away from others for at least five days.
Health authorities have revealed the latest guideline for COVID-19 patients, with the outpatient protocol now default for patients with mild to no symptoms.
This adjustment was made following the downgrade of COVID-19 from a dangerous communicable disease to a communicable disease under surveillance, resulting in a further relaxation of measures previously put in place to suppress the spread.
Dr. Thongchai Keratihuttayakorn, Director General of the Department of Medical Services, said people testing positive for COVID-19 who do not exhibit symptoms will need to practice precautionary measures that include social distancing, masking, and hand hygiene for 5 days. They will not be prescribed antiviral drugs.
Patients who exhibit mild symptoms will be treated as outpatients, with antivirals prescribed based on the doctor’s discretion. Medications provided to patients who exhibit symptoms include green chiretta and Favipiravir, while those with underlying health conditions may receive one of the antivirals approved for COVID-19 treatment.
Patients who develop lung infections will be admitted to the hospital and will be prescribed Remdesivir.
Dr. Thongchai said people with underlying diseases, are at high risk of developing severe complications, and children who develop drowsiness, lack of appetite, dehydration from diarrhea, or seizure from high fever, should quickly see a doctor.
The current guideline no longer recommends antigen self-test unless suspicious symptoms are shown. People are encouraged to stay at home when developing symptoms such as coughs and a runny nose. If they need to leave home, they should double mask, maintain a safe distance from others, and frequently sanitize their hands.
Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha meanwhile thanked all sectors for their collective efforts leading to successful COVID-19 control, which has led to the recovery of travel and the economy.
He asked the general public to remain vigilant and practice personal hygiene. (NNT)
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