Thailand pledges to ensure supply of masks, COVID-19 rapid test kits

The number of COVID-19 cases is skyrocketing in Thailand with a total of 71,067 infections - Photo: THE NATION

The Thai government on May 23 pledged to maintain a stable supply of masks, COVID-19 rapid test kits and hand sanitizers, while advising suppliers not to speculate on prices and hoard goods amid growing concerns about the disease.

According to Thai government deputy spokesman Anukool Pruksanusak, COVID-19 prevention items such as masks, rapid test kits and hand sanitizers are still available in the market at affordable prices.

Currently, the Ministry of Commerce, through the Department of Internal Trade, is working with more than 20 manufacturers, importers and major retailers to closely monitor the supply situation. According to the Thai Government's assessment, inventories are still abundant, and many suppliers are implementing discount promotions to support consumers.

Mr. Anukool said that domestic mask production is currently at about 50-60% capacity and can be expanded if needed. Input materials are still fully supplied.

He also affirmed that the domestic market currently has sufficient supply of COVID-19 rapid test kits. He advised consumers to compare prices among wholesalers, department stores, supermarkets, pharmacies and online platforms, as prices may vary depending on the brand, type and quality of the product.

The Thai government's deputy spokesman also called on people to be vigilant, maintain good hygiene, eat cooked food and follow COVID-19 prevention measures.

On the same day, in South Korea, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) warned of the risk of COVID-19 spreading during the summer, and asked health agencies and people to proactively respond.

The KDCA recommends that people take basic precautions, such as washing hands regularly and getting vaccinated for high-risk groups.

The spread of COVID-19 in South Korea remains stable with little change from week to week. In the 20th week of this year (May 11-17), South Korea recorded 100 COVID-19 hospitalizations at 221 monitored hospitals, down from the previous week.

Weekly statistics have fluctuated slightly but have remained fairly stable in recent weeks, with 127 cases in week 17, 115 in week 18 and 146 in week 19.

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VNA

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/thai-lan-cam-ket-dam-bao-nguon-cung-khau-trang-bo-xet-nghiem-nhanh-covid-19-20250520092531596.htm