Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, Thai permanent secretary for publichealth, said on June 26 that the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths worldwideis gradually dropping. In Thailand, reports also showed that Covid-19inpatients and clusters are disappearing, he added.
However, Dr Opas noted that deaths were in the so-called"608" at-risk group; people 60 years and over, those with underlyingconditions and pregnant women. Most of them were unvaccinated and older than 70years old.
It is still advised that large gatherings be avoided and COVID-19preventive measures encouraged. Dr Opas said that masks should be worn when inclose contact with the elderly, children and people with underlying conditions.
The Public Health Ministry is encouraging people with familymembers who are senior citizens or in the 608 group to get COVID-19 vaccineboosters as well as an influenza shot. For children aged six months to fiveyears old who have not been vaccinated, Dr Opas said parents should get themvaccinated to avoid severe COVID-19 symptoms and death./.