Coronavirus - Thailand

[Jellybean]

Just back from doctors office USA. I was trying to get a travel certificate to fly from USA - Seoul- BKK when the doctor said upon return from any Asian country I would have to quarantine at an outside USA army base for 14 days before being readmitted into the USA.
There goes my vacation.


We are due to travel from Ireland next week to Pattaya.It looks less likely every day now.This virus is spreading rapidly.Probably better safe than sorry.

And two quotes from the Quick questions guys - which airline to bkk - Emirates, Lufthansa. Etihad or Qatar !? topic:


My boss has just forbidden me from travelling to Thailand next month (in fairness he also cancelled his own trip to SE Asia)
So it looks like I will be spending Songkran locked up at home chomping on Easter eggs!


You and me both perhaps - albeit my enforced jail time in the office will I fear have to be self imposed which makes it even worse! Even in the last two days business has started to suffer with various work issues now cropping up due to the virus scares. Likewise I can just feel my staffs nervousness that they may have to self isolate and what will happen re their work ( I dint mean jobs there btw I mean their work load).

All of which is starting to make it look almost impossible for me to say “oh by the way guys, see in the middle of all of this, I’m fucking off to Thailand to party for a bit - but don’t worry I’ll try not to bring anything back with me when I return”.

So yeah, I hate to admit it but your boss probably has a point :-(

I was sorry to read that three and possibly four of our members will be cancelling their proposed trips to Thailand due to the Coronavirus. I know it’s probably of no consolation, but I had to cancel last year’s trip and I have a rough idea how you are all feeling.

And, I’d like to say, don’t worry chaps, I’ll take care of all the lads you would have seen and will now miss out on. But sadly, I am barely capable of taking care of all the young men I meet! So others, far more qualified than me, will have to step into the breach. ;)

[Nirish guy]

I’ll take care of all the lads you would have seen and will now miss out on.. ;)

And yet strangely that doesn't seem to help at all somehow with easing our woes .....funny that eh :)

[Brad the Impala]

So there’s three or four of us lot all fairly well decided now on pulling the plug on our Thailand trip in the next two or three weeks - and us all generally the hardcore of travels who would travel “no matter what”, so if that’s us all (having) to throw in the towel that certainly doesn’t bode well for tourism numbers to come in Thailand in general over Songkran etc perhaps ! :-(

Make that five and six on the cusp of reluctantly cancelling.

[Nirish guy]

Whilst I'm sorry for the lot of us who are thinking of not travelling or have already pulled the plug I have to say that for each person I hear that are the same boat it does hgo a little way to helping ease my own doubts and indecision as to whether I perhaps am just over reacting or not in that others obviously also feel the same way and feel that it's prudent perhaps not to travel just now - not that that helps any of us of course, but still, nice to know its NOT just me wringing me hands and wondering should I or shouldn't I ! :-(

I finally got my refund from Emirates ( minus 200 euro :-( ) for my Dub to Japan, Bangkok to Dublin flight so at least that's something. My Japan to Bkk flight is a no chance of a refund flight, likewise my Bkk hotel is already paid for and no refundable and whilst I've 'booked" with Mosiak I have't paid yet and I'm hoping that after all these years an apologetic email to the boys on the desk there may get me out of that booking hopefully. So cost wise only about £350 down so far, but money of course isn't the issue and it's the loss of the trip that's eating me more than anything else, ESPECIALLY over songkran AND as it falls at the same time as our UK Easter holidays for once meaning I was able to take longer off work too this time :-(

Hmmmm gotta go check......I wonder how busy Bali is at this time of the year ! ???? :-) lol ( which ok sort of defeats the purpose of NOT travelling I know, but somehow it feels like the lesser of two evils perhaps.)

[Jellybean]

I don't know if this helps NIrish-guy, but many years ago my former boss, whom I shall simply refer to as ‘M’, said to me, 'Remember, you only live once Mr Bean.' To which I replied, ‘How very true, Sir.’ Well, I was young and ambitious and didn’t want to blot my copybook. :)

But seriously, if anything, with my underlying health conditions, I am more concerned about the situation back home in the UK than out here in Thailand. Every day, over breakfast and last thing at night, I listen to talk radio from London and the majority opinion from listeners across the UK would appear to be that HMG has not acted quickly enough to protect UK borders and has put the country at risk. Now, whether that is true or not, I have no way of knowing. But I do find the Government’s worst case scenario figures for deaths in the UK from Covid-19 truly frightening.

But enough of this gloomy talk, I'd like to end on a positive note, and just to cheer everyone up, here's some photos I took earlier today in Pattaya:

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[Nirish guy]

..............many years ago my former boss, whom I shall simply refer to as ‘M’,

your Boss was called "M" and you claim to be a civil servant !??? OMG I knew it, Civil servant my ass, you worked for MI6 Secret Intelligence didn't you !?!

I can just see you now, standing there on the stage in Nice Boys with your "pistol" in your hand, shouting stand back boys, Jelly's arrived, the name is Bean, Jelly Bean, Licenced to thrill !!! lol

[dab69]

I think my doctor was full of crap. The CDC website says "self-quarantine" upon returning from South Korea, etc.
Nothing about quarantine in an Army base (Guantanamo).
I think she just didn't have access to a test for cor19 for my travel document and didn't want me to travel to anywhere in Asia.
The bitch!

I am going to be real grumpy at work for a month or so.
But my friend will be impressed- I transferred my plane ticket to his BIRTHDAY!

[pong]

Well, overthere in that island in the Northsea even the minister for public health seems to have been able to catch it, apparently even on a meeting with a certain proud new father named BoJo.
As for BKK here: as to now never seen a mask in any of the palce Ive been inside to as for this forum. But yesterday in a well-known m2m msg shop, there was a bottle of that sanitizer one now sees everywhere and is even requested to use when entering certain shopping centres. But the heat now on means frequent changes in out and inside with AC fully blowing means one is prone to catch a cold with sneezing etc. as result.

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight two reports from BBC News, one report from The Times, two reports from the Bangkok Post and one report from MailOnline:


Coronavirus: Trump halts travel from Europe to US

12 March 2020

US President Donald Trump has announced sweeping new travel restrictions on Europe in a bid to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

In a televised address on Wednesday, he said all travel from Europe would be suspended for the next 30 days.

But he said the "strong but necessary" restrictions would not apply to the UK, where 460 cases of the virus have now been confirmed.

There are 1,135 confirmed cases of the virus across the US, with 38 deaths.

"To keep new cases from entering our shores, we will be suspending all travel from Europe to the United States for the next 30 days," Mr Trump said . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-51846923


Coronavirus: Italy shuts nearly all shops as WHO declares pandemic

12 March 2020

Italy is to close all shops except food stores and pharmacies in Europe's toughest lockdown yet as virus deaths and cases continue to mount.

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said bars, restaurants, hairdressers and non-essential company departments would also close. Home delivery would be allowed.

Earlier the World Health Organization (WHO) said the outbreak was a pandemic.

WHO chief Dr Tedros said cases outside China had soared 13-fold in two weeks.
He said he was "deeply concerned" by "alarming levels of inaction".

• What is a pandemic and why use the term now?
• Stock markets plunge as WHO confirms pandemic

A pandemic is defined as a disease that is spreading in multiple countries around the world at the same time . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-51845817

And from The Times:


New ‘social distancing’ rules as Covid-19 is declared a pandemic

Chris Smyth, Whitehall Editor
Thursday March 12 2020, 12.01am GMT, The Times

Advice on how people should keep their distance from one another is to be issued by the government as the World Health Organisation declared the coronavirus outbreak to be a pandemic.

Boris Johnson will announce today that Britain is moving into the “delay” phase of fighting the virus as he chairs a Cobra emergency meeting to sign off “social-distancing” measures telling people how to stay away from others.

Advice to stay at home if you have a cough and fever even if you have not travelled, ways of “cocooning” elderly people, and suggestions about standing farther apart will all be considered. Ministers are pledging “whatever it takes” to fight the virus . . .

For the full report see: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/

And two reports from the Bangkok Post:


Thailand cancels visa on arrival for 18 countries, visa exemptions for 3

published : 11 Mar 2020 at 15:21
updated: 11 Mar 2020 at 20:24
writer: Bangkok Post and Reuters

Thailand on Wednesday cancelled the grant of visa on arrival for 18 countries and visa exemption for three others to contain the spread of the coronavirus, Interior Minister Anupong Paojinda said.

Previously, nationals of 18 countries or territories could use their passports or travel documents to apply for Visa on Arrival (VoA) at Thai immigration checkpoints.

The 18 places are: Bulgaria, Bhutan, China (including Taiwan), Cyprus, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Vanuatu.

Visa exemption will be cancelled for South Korea, Italy and Hong Kong, the interior minister said . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1876449/thailand-cancels-visa-on-arrival-for-18-countries-visa-exemptions-for-3


Six new local infections lift Covid-19 cases to 59

Airport immigration officer among new patients

published : 11 Mar 2020 at 13:18
updated: 11 Mar 2020 at 15:12
writer: Online Reporters

The Public Health Ministry on Wednesday reported six new local cases of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) infection, five Thais and one Singaporean, lifting the total number of cases to 59.

Of the six new cases, two work at Suvarnabhumi airport, Sophon Iamsirithavorn, director of the Department of Disease Control, said.

One, a 21-year-old immigration officer, fell ill on March 8, developing a fever, a runny nose and a headache. Tests at two labs showed positive for Covid-19 infection, Dr Sophon said . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1876419/six-new-local-infections-lift-covid-19-cases-to-59

And a friend drew my attention to the following report from MailOnline, which was updated on 11 March 2020:


How one man spread coronavirus to NINE other people on his bus in China: Scientists find the deadly virus can travel four times the 'safe' distance and linger in the air for over 30 minutes in confined places

• Scientists studied one man in China who passed the virus to 13 people in total
• On the bus, germs jumped as far as 4.5 metres to other travellers
• It lingered in the air for up to 30 mins, after the original man had got off the bus
• People who wore masks on the bus were not infected, the study found
• Coronavirus bugs also stayed on surfaces for days, especially when it was hot
• Scientists said their findings show face masks are useful protective measures
• UPDATE: The study published in a Chinese journal has since been retracted

By Vanessa Chalmers Health Reporter For Mailonline
Published: 11:07 GMT, 10 March 2020 | Updated: 11:11 GMT, 11 March 2020

For the full report see: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8094933/How-one-man-spread-coronavirus-NINE-people-bus.html

[Jellybean]

And once again, just to lighten the mood, via facebook, advice on how to self isolate at home:

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[Nirish guy]

Wow, Trump suspends all travel and trade from all of Europe to US for 30 days from Friday midnight - we’ll, all EXCEPT travel and trade from the UK it seems ! I guess his good friend Boris must have called in a favour or two - I wonder what that’ll cost us later in return !?

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-51846923

[dinagam]

And once again, just to lighten the mood, via facebook, advice on how to self isolate at home:

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That is an equivalent of an entire forest being felled.
I wish they tried some other proven and effective measures like the bum water spray.

[Zebedee]

Wow, Trump suspends all travel and trade from all of Europe to US for 30 days from Friday midnight - we’ll, all EXCEPT travel and trade from the UK it seems ! I guess his good friend Boris must have called in a favour or two - I wonder what that’ll cost us later in return !?

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-51846923

Nirish guy, Unless I'm misreading that link Trump appears to have banned TRAVEL only....I do not see any mention of a TRADE ban. If it turns out he has banned TRADE as well, that would have huge repercussions. Maybe they edited that press release. He can ban travel all he likes, travel in general is already reduced by the public themselves.

[Zebedee]

Every day, over breakfast and last thing at night, I listen to talk radio from London and the majority opinion from listeners across the UK would appear to be that HMG has not acted quickly enough to protect UK borders and has put the country at risk. ]

Yes Jellybean I agree, the Corona Virus is very serious.....and nothing to be sneezed at!








Ok I'll get my coat AGAIN.

[Nirish guy]

Nirish guy, Unless I'm misreading that link Trump appears to have banned TRAVEL only....I do not see any mention of a TRADE ban..

Yes they’ve edited the news conference clip down that was attached in that link from when I watched it last night. To be fair it was 2am when I was watching it and I could of course have misheard him, but I actually thought I specifically heard him mention “anyTHING coming Europe and referring to people AND trade - which of course I found strange myself.

So one of two things, they’ve corrected and edited out a “misspoken phrase” by him or I’ve misheard or misunderstood his news conference when tired, obviously more likely the latter ( although actually I’m still not so sure about that ...) anyway, sorry for any confusion caused re that either way as you’re right, the written statement to follow his news conference doesn’t mention trade.

EDIT !

NO ! I wasn't dreaming - I've just watched his original news conference again ( I'll try and post a link below) and he said very clearly - "These prohibitions will not only apply to the tremendous amount of trade and cargo but various other things as we get approval, anything coming from Europe to the united States is what we are discussing" THAT to me is fairly clear and unambiguous in intent - I wonder HAVE they rolled back on that then this morning on realising that it's both unnecessary and going to cause even more problems for everyone that any travel ban might !

Here's his words in his news conference ......
http://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-donald-trump-bans-all-travel-from-mainland-europe-to-us-for-30-days-11955860


AHHHH EDIT No 2

So, I was right, he DID say it -- and then he TWEETED later to correct / alter his verbal statement and confirmed that's not what he meant and dropped it !!

My God, that's that sort of really stupid ( and costly) admin mistake you expect the likes of the Thai Government, not the USA for gods sake ! Someone's head should certainly roll for that major gaff !

For once you can't even really blame Trump himself as of course he just ( barely) reads what he's given by his press people I imagine, UNLESS it WAS him who insisted that was in there and someone afterwards THEN pointed out just how crazy that would be to him AFTER his news conference aired - unfortunately nothing from Trump surprises anymore !

Here's the BBC news article comment re this....

"Mr Trump initally said the travel suspension would also "apply to the tremendous amount of trade and cargo" coming from Europe into the US. He later tweeted to say that trade would "in no way be affected".
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-51846923

[Patanawet]

Nirish guy, Unless I'm misreading that link Trump appears to have banned TRAVEL only....I do not see any mention of a TRADE ban. If it turns out he has banned TRADE as well, that would have huge repercussions. Maybe they edited that press release. He can ban travel all he likes, travel in general is already reduced by the public themselves.
Watch the speech. It's very clear what he says.

[Patanawet]

Trump hasn't banned all flights to and from Europe. The W.H. has clarified it as Schengen countries.

[Nirish guy]

It sounds more and more that this was either a rushed news conference and knee jerk reaction, perhaps to a Trump "command" ( and then corrected later by people who may actually have HALF an idea how the world works and what they need to be doing - unlike him) OR ( as I now think is more probable) he intentionally said what he did for public consumption ( in the run up to an election !) so he can talk about and replay the clip of the "tough measures" he imposed on Europe to "protect America" ....without mentioning of course that his "tough measures" were watered down no less than 30 minutes later by him in a TWEET !

God help us all the the most powerful Country on the planet now communicates with the people and the rest of the World and issues major corrections to major policy decisions by "Tweet" !

[gerefan2]

God help us all the the most powerful Country on the planet now communicates with the people and the rest of the World and issues major corrections to major policy decisions by "Tweet" !

Quite right. The world is too complex to be run by humans.
It did just fine for millions and millions of years before we arrived.

[Zebedee]

Yes they’ve edited the news conference clip down that was attached in that link from when I watched it last night. To be fair it was 2am when I was watching it and I could of course have misheard him, but I actually thought I specifically heard him mention “anyTHING coming Europe and referring to people AND trade - which of course I found strange myself.

So one of two things, they’ve corrected and edited out a “misspoken phrase” by him or I’ve misheard or misunderstood his news conference when tired, obviously more likely the latter ( although actually I’m still not so sure about that ...) anyway, sorry for any confusion caused re that either way as you’re right, the written statement to follow his news conference doesn’t mention trade.

EDIT !

NO ! I wasn't dreaming - I've just watched his original news conference again ( I'll try and post a link below) and he said very clearly - "These prohibitions will not only apply to the tremendous amount of trade and cargo but various other things as we get approval, anything coming from Europe to the united States is what we are discussing" THAT to me is fairly clear and unambiguous in intent - I wonder HAVE they rolled back on that then this morning on realising that it's both unnecessary and going to cause even more problems for everyone that any travel ban might !

Here's his words in his news conference ......
http://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-donald-trump-bans-all-travel-from-mainland-europe-to-us-for-30-days-11955860


AHHHH EDIT No 2

So, I was right, he DID say it -- and then he TWEETED later to correct / alter his verbal statement and confirmed that's not what he meant and dropped it !!

My God, that's that sort of really stupid ( and costly) admin mistake you expect the likes of the Thai Government, not the USA for gods sake ! Someone's head should certainly roll for that major gaff !

For once you can't even really blame Trump himself as of course he just ( barely) reads what he's given by his press people I imagine, UNLESS it WAS him who insisted that was in there and someone afterwards THEN pointed out just how crazy that would be to him AFTER his news conference aired - unfortunately nothing from Trump surprises anymore !

Here's the BBC news article comment re this....

"Mr Trump initally said the travel suspension would also "apply to the tremendous amount of trade and cargo" coming from Europe into the US. He later tweeted to say that trade would "in no way be affected".
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-51846923

I never doubted you for a moment!
I only read your link not any other news source. But if he banned TRADE from Europe...which as you correctly pointed out he DID say initially only to retract later...all hell would break loose.
I was not trying to be a smart ass, but to me Trump banning European trade would be like Corona, GFC, SARS, and a lot more ,all coming at once.

"U.S. goods and services trade with the EU totaled nearly $1.3 trillion in 2018. Exports totaled $575 billion; Imports totaled $684 billion. The U.S. goods and services trade deficit with the EU was $109 billion in 2018."
https://ustr.gov/countries-regions/europe-middle-east/europe/european-union

Opps 30 days only!!! ah to hell with it. LOL

[Nirish guy]

I was not trying to be a smart ass, .


The thought hadn't even crossed my mind as not your M.O., I just assumed and took it as the genuine ( important) query that it was. Scary the way he then rolled back on by tweet giving the impression it was new thing he was saying and not in fact correcting his major blunder, where he perhaps thought he was back on the campaign trail and got carried away awith himself and went totally off script -until instructed later to correct his screw up - god forbid he just admits he made a mistake and needs to clarify and correct something I said earlier etc - god FORBID!

[Zebedee]

The thought hadn't even crossed my mind as not your M.O., I just assumed and took it as the genuine ( important) query that it was. Scary the way he then rolled back on by tweet giving the impression it was new thing he was saying and not in fact correcting his major blunder, where he perhaps thought he was back on the campaign trail and got carried away awith himself and went totally off script -until instructed later to correct his screw up - god forbid he just admits he made a mistake and needs to clarify and correct something I said earlier etc - god FORBID!

I think what happened is, his minders went for a coffee,and Donald accessed the internet unsupervised...the result was the near end of civilisation !

[Patanawet]

Again, not all Europe-- only Schengen countries.

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight three reports from the Bangkok Post and one report from BBC News:



'Don't panic' says US woman who recovered from coronavirus

published : 13 Mar 2020 at 01:45
writer: AFP

SEATTLE - An American woman who has recovered from the novel coronavirus has a simple message for people who are worried: Don't panic -- but do think about high-risk individuals and stay home if you feel ill.

Elizabeth Schneider lives in Seattle, the biggest city of Washington state, which has the most deaths in the United States from the disease sweeping the globe.

The 37-year-old, who has a PhD in bioengineering, said she was sharing her story "to give people a little bit of hope" through her own relatively mild experience with the infection, which she treated herself from home . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/1877464/dont-panic-says-us-woman-who-recovered-from-coronavirus#cxrecs_s


Disney closes California theme park, delays 'Mulan' over virus

published : 13 Mar 2020 at 07:45
writer: AFP

LOS ANGELES: Disney will close its giant California theme park and pull the releases of major blockbusters including "Mulan," it announced Thursday, as coronavirus fears shuttered a slew of concerts, festivals and attractions across the US.

Disneyland is the world's second-most visited theme park, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each day. The attraction in Anaheim will remain shut at least until the end of March . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/1877504/disney-closes-california-theme-park-delays-mulan-over-virus


Thai stocks slide most in 11 years

AoT shares lead losses, plunging 12%

published : 12 Mar 2020 at 18:52
writer: Bangkok Post and Bloomberg

Thai stocks posted their steepest slide since 2006, extending losses as trading resumed following a halt triggered by a circuit breaker when losses reached 10% . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1877424/thai-stocks-slide-most-in-11-years

And from BBC News . . .


Coronavirus: Countries enforce mass closures to stem spread

13 March 2020

Schools have been closed, sports events cancelled and cultural institutions shut around the world as countries try to stem the coronavirus outbreak.

In the US, all major sport has been suspended and Broadway performances are off for a month.

Meanwhile, France is one of the latest European countries to close all schools, universities and nurseries.

President Emmanuel Macron described the outbreak as France's most serious health crisis for a century.

More than 125,000 people have been diagnosed with Covid-19 in 118 countries around the world, according to the World Health Organization. The total number of deaths is more than 4,600 . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-51862347

[Moses]

Great report of Reuters why South Korea winning fight with virus and why Italy don't.

Long read! https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-response-specialre/special-report-italy-and-south-korea-virus-outbreaks-reveal-disparity-in-deaths-and-tactics-idUSKBN20Z27P

[Nirish guy]

From that Article,,,,,,"Center for Global Development in Washington, said extensive testing can give countries a better picture of the extent of an outbreak. When testing in a country is limited, he said, the authorities have to take bolder actions to limit movement of people."

So, thats the USA in the shit then ! Hardly any testing, almost no idea of the REAL number of cases in the US so based on the above they'd better start limiting movement real soon or Trump will have to start explaining to the American people why he screwed up very shortly perhaps. Mind you maybe THAT"S why he carried out his European ban so he can so what decisive action he ( didn't actually ) take when people come asking WTF and why the US cases are rocketing !

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post, two reports from BBC News and as the number of people infected in Britain rose by 200 in 24 hours to 798, one report from The Times:


Doctors issue Stage-3 warning

Nation 'not equipped' for full-on epidemic

published : 14 Mar 2020 at 06:20
newspaper section: News
writer: Post Reporters

An association of chest physicians is calling on the government to prepare for Covid-19 to become a "Stage 3", full-blown epidemic in Thailand while slamming the authorities' slow response to the spread of the disease.

On its Facebook page, the Thoracic Society of Thailand issued an emotionally charged statement warning that the country might not be equipped to deal with a drastic escalation in the number of cases . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1878380/doctors-issue-stage-3-warning


Tourism Ministry hopes for post-virus tourist bounce

36.9m expected if outbreak ends soon

published : 14 Mar 2020 at 08:10
newspaper section: News
writer: Penchan Charoensuthipan and Apinya Wipatayotin

The Tourism and Sports Ministry is expecting 36.9 million foreign tourists to visit Thailand this year if the Covid-19 outbreak grinds to a halt by next month.

However, if the spread of the new coronavirus continues, it will be a "big issue" and deepen fears not only in terms of public health but also of the tremendous loss of tourism revenue, Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said yesterday as he prayed for the end of the current global pandemic as declared by the World Health Organisation.
The economy depends on tourism which contributes about 20% of GDP . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1878350/tourism-ministry-hopes-for-post-virus-tourist-bounce

And from BBC News:


Coronavirus: Europe now epicentre of the pandemic, says WHO

14 March 2020

Europe is now the "epicentre" of the global coronavirus pandemic, the head of the World Health Organization says.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged countries to use aggressive measures, community mobilisation and social distancing to save lives.

"Do not just let this fire burn," he said.

His comments came as several European countries reported steep rises in infections and deaths. Italy has recorded its highest daily toll yet.

There were 250 deaths recorded over the past 24 hours, taking the total to 1,266, with 17,660 infections overall.

Spain, the worst-affected European country after Italy, reported a 50% jump in fatalities to 120 on Friday. Infections increased to 4,231 . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-51876784


Trump declares national emergency over coronavirus

14 March 2020

US President Donald Trump has declared a national emergency to help handle the growing outbreak of coronavirus.

The declaration - "two very big words", according to Mr Trump - allows the federal government to tap up to $50bn (£40bn) in emergency relief funds.

The move loosens regulations on the provision of healthcare and could speed up testing - the slow pace of which has been criticised widely.

There are 1,701 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the US, and 40 deaths.

Several US states have taken measures to stem the infections rate, including banning large gatherings, sporting events and closing schools . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-51882381

And from The Times . . .



Coronavirus emergency laws: Police get powers to detain victims

Large gatherings to be banned from next weekend

Steven Swinford, Deputy Political Editor | Chris Smyth, Whitehall Editor
Saturday March 14 2020, 12.01am GMT, The Times

Police will be able to detain infected people and schools could be forced to stay open under a package of powers being announced next week to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.

Emergency laws to help to limit the spread of the virus will be introduced after the number of people infected in Britain rose by 200 in 24 hours to 798. The measures, seen by The Times, will also let councils lower standards in care homes to deal with staff shortages.

The legislation, which ministers intend to push through parliament in two weeks, will equip the government to deal with the disease. Ministers believe that the virus will infect the majority of the population, and the laws will stay in place for two years . . .

For the full report see: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/

[aussie_]

A farang aquintance mentioned how he thought some people were very irresponsable in regards to the transmission of Covid_19 after he had read the article below from the Bangkok Post. The previous night i saw the same farang sharing a shot glass with Thai bar boys and other farangs when playing the Thai drinking games at a Jomtiem Complex bar. He said the alcohol will kill the virus. Everyone is talking about the virus but there does not seem to be much in the way of preventative measures in place to stop the spread of the virus in Pattaya and the bars.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1877284/11-more-local-coronavirus-cases

[Zebedee]

A farang aquintance mentioned how he thought some people were very irresponsable in regards to the transmission of Covid_19 after he had read the article below from the Bangkok Post. The previous night i saw the same farang sharing a shot glass with Thai bar boys and other farangs when playing the Thai drinking games at a Jomtiem Complex bar. He said the alcohol will kill the virus. Everyone is talking about the virus but there does not seem to be much in the way of preventative measures in place to stop the spread of the virus in Pattaya and the bars.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1877284/11-more-local-coronavirus-cases

The problem is some people have the virus but do not have obvious ( or any ) symptoms, unless people self isolate infected or not, I don't see how it can be stopped. Yes wash your hands,stay your distance from people, wear a mask, but personally I think these measures will not prevent infection.Some countries response to the virus is near acceptance of huge infections. Unless there is a very disciplined response similar to China or Korea it seems huge infections rates are inevitable.
Regarding your friend,if he is over sixty he is in the increased mortality range upon infection, if he has underlying health issues his mortality range increases and so on.
I do not mean to be dismissive of his behaviour, it's I just don't know what he can do other than be a hermit. if you share a baht bus, you could probably pick the virus up from the handrails! The potential infection points are everywhere.

[Oliver2]

Apparently, wearing a mask helps the wearer avoid passing on the virus but not the wearer from being infected.

[lonelywombat]

My friends who do not live in Australai usually travel to Thailand 3 times each year. They are fortunate as the Head office is in Bangkok.

Their request to come in via Hua hin and stay there was ridiculed

The lax nature of health checks there has led to hundreds of Asians moving in for 14 days and then moving on. He strongly suggested to give it a huge miss.

U-Tapao was suggested and he stated not far behind Hua Hin

He does not know of US PAX travelling to Thailand and being told to plan for 14 days isolation on return

He believes that those avoiding BKK may have something to hide

They have cancelled their trip.

[goji]

Today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post, two reports from BBC News and as the number of people infected in Britain rose by 200 in 24 hours to 798, one report from The Times:

Plotted on a log scale, as it obviously should be, over the last 2 weeks, the rate of increase in cases in the UK is approximately the same as other western countries.
Obviously we have fewer cases, but the trend is the same.
The government says it will make decisions at the time advised by their scientific experts.

Anyone who doesn't fancy that could probably choose to take their own additional measures.

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post, two reports from BBC News and one report from The Sunday Times:


Panel to mull closing all entertainment outlets after pub outbreak

published : 15 Mar 2020 at 07:30
newspaper section: News
writer: Post Reporters

Deputy Prime Minister and Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul says he will ask a Covid-19 outbreak management committee to close all entertainment venues nationwide in the wake of cluster infections involving people drinking together in a pub.

The proposal is among measures which he will present to the committee tomorrow, Mr Anutin said. Other measures include declaring additional communicable disease areas, and banning various activities involving mass gatherings, he said, adding the measures will be implemented under the Communicable Disease Act and the National Administration Act . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1878980/panel-to-mull-closing-all-entertainment-outlets-after-pub-outbreak


Govt endeavours to clear up visa entry confusion

published : 15 Mar 2020 at 08:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Post Reporters

The Foreign Ministry on Saturday reiterated that the cancellation of visa on arrival (VOA) for 18 countries and visa exemption for three highly-infected countries came into effect on Friday.

The cancellations are in place temporarily until Sept 30, said Cherdkiat Atthakor, director-general and spokesman of the Foreign Ministry's Information Department.

However, citizens of Russia, South Korea, Hong Kong and Macau that have signed bilateral agreements on free visas with Thailand are exempted from these two new visa policies, which means they can enter Thailand without having to apply for a visa . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1878865/govt-endeavours-to-clear-up-visa-entry-confusion

And from BBC News:


Coronavirus: US to extend travel ban to UK and Ireland

15 March 2020

The US is to extend its European coronavirus travel ban to include the UK and Republic of Ireland.

The ban will begin at midnight EST on Monday (04:00 GMT Tuesday), Vice-President Mike Pence announced.

President Trump's travel ban on 26 European countries - members of the Schengen free movement zone - came into force on Saturday.

Mr Pence also announced that free coronavirus testing would be provided for every American.

"Now it's all systems go," said National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Anthony Fauci on efforts to expand testing . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-51891662


Coronavirus: Spain and France announce sweeping restrictions

15 March 2020

Two of the EU's biggest states, Spain and France, have followed Italy in announcing emergency restrictions to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

In Spain, people are banned from leaving home except for buying essential supplies and medicines, or for work.
With 191 deaths, Spain is Europe's worst-hit country after Italy.

In France, where 91 people have died, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and most shops are now shut.
Italy, which has recorded more than 1,440 deaths, began a nationwide lockdown on Monday . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-51892477

And from The Sunday Times:


Coronavirus death toll leaps — and forces Boris Johnson to act

NHS to buy up beds in private hospitals as poll shows public support food rationing

Tim Shipman, Political Editor, and Andrew Gregory, Health Editor
Sunday March 15 2020, 12.01am GMT, The Sunday Times

The public are prepared to see Boris Johnson seize draconian powers last seen in wartime, a new poll suggests

Boris Johnson ordered fresh action against the coronavirus last night amid fears that the pandemic is spreading faster than anticipated.

As the death toll in Britain hit 21 yesterday, after doubling in four hours, the prime minister ordered the government to accelerate plans to make the elderly and vulnerable stay at home possibly for several months and force whole families to self-isolate where one member has symptoms of the disease.

Johnson will chair a meeting today that is expected to impose the new rules this week — two weeks earlier than medics and scientists had expected last week . . .

For the full report see: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/

[Manforallseasons]

Thailand adds UK and USA to high risk group:

https://pattayaone.news/thailand-adds-uk-usa-and-others-to-list-of-high-risk-countries-new-self-monitoring-measure-for-travellers/

[christianpfc]

Seriously pouring boiling water over the 'polystyrene' mask will cause the release of a great amount of microplastics which will enter your system upon repeated use.
Those face masks are certainly not made of polystyrene. But the question is rather: does boiling water kill the virus?

[dinagam]

Those face masks are certainly not made of polystyrene. But the question is rather: does boiling water kill the virus?

Of course the masks are not made of 'polystyrenes', most likely fibers derived from petrochemical compounds, which will leak micro plastics whenever Jellybean pours boiling water over them. It has been reported that the Covid-19 virus will die if left exposed on a hot surface over a period of time.
However if you're concerned about the planet earth, there is a biodegradable option.

[latintopxxx]

...or just spray it with an aerosol disinfectant available in supermarkets...no need to boil water like one is expecting to play midwife...

[arsenal]

Expect panic buying of Werthers Originals, Steradent and Seven Seas.

https://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-over-70s-will-be-asked-to-self-isolate-potentially-for-months-11957770

[goji]

Those face masks are certainly not made of polystyrene. But the question is rather: does boiling water kill the virus?

I read a paper showing that a very brief exposure to temperatures of 77C killed viruses. Although it was not Covid19.
Detergent is also understood to kill it.

I would think putting your face mask in the oven for a short while should kill any viruses, but I can't imagine the elastic would like that.

[christianpfc]

Of course the masks are not made of 'polystyrenes', most likely fibers derived from petrochemical compounds, which will leak micro plastics whenever Jellybean pours boiling water over them.
Most masks I have seem seem to be made of plant-based fibers.

Only a small number I have seen (last year in Hong Kong) are made of plastic (a kind of plastic that looks like a filter, but is strong enough to hold the mask behind your ears, and can be melted to glue the two parts together).

[dab69]

Reported today- all bars closing Monday.

https://www.gayguides.com/forums/topic/12827-government-closing-bars/

Hopefully this will save many boys lives.

[dab69]

PM: Nightlife stays open for business

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-cha announced he has rejected, for the time being, the suggestion from Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to temporarily close the country’s massive nightlife industry. Anutin Charnvirakul said yesterday the suggestion was one of several measures he and the Ministry of Public Health would bring up with the PM tomorrow.

But as social media exploded, fiercely divided both for and against the move, Prayut addressed reporters saying he did “not feel it [is] needed at this time.” But he added the situation will be reassessed at a later date if it worsens, and asked for the cooperation of business owners to take proper precautions to protect their customers and staff.

Many netizens expressed concern that closing the industry would mean tens, if not hundreds of thousands of people not only being laid off, but returning to their homes in rural Thailand, exposing the country’s significant (and especially vulnerable) elderly population to the disease, which is so far mainly in rural areas. The majority of workers in Thailand’s tens of thousands of nightclubs, bars, live music venues, massage parlours, karaoke clubs, pubs and other entertainment sites survive paycheck to paycheck, and would almost certainly be forced to return home to their families. Many are from Issan, in the rural Northeast of Thailand, which is the country’s poorest area and home to largest number of the vulnerable elderly.

Several venues, particularly in Bangkok, have been closed both due to suspected cases and as a precaution by owners. Many others have been shuttered by the downturn in business due to lack of tourists.

Other measures suggested by the Anutin and other ministry officials, such as moving Songkran later in the year to avoid hundreds of thousands of people returning home in April, further travel restrictions and stopping more private and sporting events, will be discussed at regular meetings tomorrow.

Thaiger quote

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post and two reports from BBC News:


Govt steps up virus fight

Concern mounts as infections hit 114

published : 16 Mar 2020 at 04:30
newspaper section: News
writer: Wassana Nanuam

Retail shops and supermarkets in Bangkok are crowded after people stockpile instant noodles, canned foods and other basic goods, out of fear the government will announce a lockdown policy across the country to contain the Covid-19 pandemic. 

The government has stepped up measures to contain the coronavirus or Covid-19 if the country reaches Stage 3, a full-blown pandemic, with the first measure to use a newly built hospital to treat only Covid-19 patients, as the number of infections jumped alarmingly to 114 yesterday.

The premier mentioned the prospect of moving to Stage 3 after chairing an urgent meeting on Sunday to step up measures to stop the spread of the new coronavirus. The government will "spend all the resources we need" in the fight against Covid-19, he said . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1879405/govt-steps-up-virus-fight

Below is an article on panic buying from the Bangkok Post, something I saw at first hand yesterday. I had heard and read about it back in the UK, but this was the first time I had seen it in Thailand.


Shelves won't stay empty

published : 16 Mar 2020 at 06:40
newspaper section: News
writer: Phusadee Arunmas and Wassana Nanuam

People flock to a Makro branch in Bangkok's Bang Bon district to buy food and other necessities amid escalating concerns over further spread of the novel coronavirus.

Retailers are insisting that supplies of essential goods remain unaffected as people rush to buy basics like instant noodles, canned foods and toilet paper amid fears of a coronavirus-prompted lockdown.

"Basic goods are not in short supply and, above all, manufacturers can still boost production capacity to cope with higher demand," Chatrchai Tuongratanaphan, executive director of the Thai Retailer Association, told the media yesterday . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1879420/shelves-wont-stay-empty

And from BBC News:


Coronavirus: EU states record highest one-day death toll

16 March 2020

The three states bearing the brunt of the coronavirus pandemic in Europe have all recorded their highest death tolls for a single day.

Italy saw 368 deaths bring its total to 1,809, Spain recorded 97 more deaths for a total of 288, and France reported 29 deaths, giving a total of 120.

The UK also saw a single-day record, with 14 new deaths and a total of 35.

Governments across Europe have responded by curbing the movements of citizens and tightening borders.

Germany is to impose controls on its borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark and Luxembourg as of Monday morning, while Portugal will clamp down on its frontier with Spain . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-51901976


Coronavirus: Isolation for over-70s 'within weeks'

Every Briton over the age of 70 will be told "within the coming weeks" to stay at home for an extended period to protect themselves from coronavirus.

When it happens, they will be asked to stay home for "a very long time", Health Secretary Matt Hancock said.

The government is to release social distancing advice for elderly people on Monday - but they will not yet be asked to self-isolate for long periods.

Fourteen more people have died from the virus, bringing deaths in the UK to 35.

Mr Hancock told the BBC that manufacturers were being asked to help produce medical equipment, such as ventilators, to help with an expected surge in demand by the NHS . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-51895873

And finally, I saw this poster on facebook. It was originally published in New South Wales, Australia at the time of the Spanish flu 1918 – 1920 and thought it may be of historical interest.

9757

[Manforallseasons]

Reported today- all bars closing Monday.

https://www.gayguides.com/forums/topic/12827-government-closing-bars/

Hopefully this will save many boys lives.

It is not the boys that are in danger it is the customers that are in close proximity and of who most are in the high risk age group.

[dab69]

some of the boys join the high risk group via underlying medical conditions.

[dinagam]

Most masks I have seem seem to be made of plant-based fibers.



You are quite correct. But these are normally worn by Vietnamese motorcyclists and others before the current pandemic.
Medical masks are made from petrochemical byproducts and there is a method in the production that ensures efficacy in daily use.
Sadly some other industries have taken advantage of the low cost of the polypropylene products that some unscrupulous tea producers have started making tea bags out of plastic materials.

[dinagam]

It is not the boys that are in danger it is the customers that are in close proximity and of who most are in the high risk age group.

This group of people should take the advice of Boris Johnson to stay at home and enjoy their cup of tea until the coast is clear. The boys can wait...

[Manforallseasons]

The government will cancel and reschedule Songkran:

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1880010/songkran-to-be-postponed-venues-and-schools-closed

[bkkguy]

from the article the plan is not only to close schools and universities but also to "close venues that attract crowds of more than 50 people" - I can just imagine the touts outside the bars in Jomtien complex carefully counting arrivals and departures and keeping the crowd below 50, though that may not be that difficult a task these days!

but the usual help is at hand - "Decisions on closures will be tailored depending on the situation in provinces"

[bkkguy]

I would think putting your face mask in the oven for a short while should kill any viruses

given the people more likely to take this advice a warning about removing the mask from your face first may be in order - though on second thought maybe not, there could be a Darwin award here, improving the gene pool, etc!

[bkkguy]

but also if "The holiday will no longer fall on April 13 to April 15" does this mean that these days are no longer public holidays this year?

[dab69]

Thailand plans to close bars, schools, halt cockfights to curb coronavirus

BANGKOK, March 16 (Reuters) - Thailand plans to close down schools, bars, movie theatres, cockfighting arenas and other entertainment centres to curb the spread of coronavirus as well as to postpone next month's Thai New Year holiday to limit travel, officials said on Monday.

The planned measures come after new cases jumped by nearly threefold in the space of a week and reached 147.

The government will ask the cabinet on Tuesday to approve closing of universities, public and private schools, kick-boxing rings, cockfighting arenas, bars and theatres nationwide, deputy government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek said on Twitter.

Cockfighting is legal and hugely popular in Thailand.

The government also plans to postpone the traditional Songkran new year holiday, which falls on April 13 to 15, to limit travel inside and outside of the country for the traditional water festival.

Restaurants likely would be allowed to remain open if they took precautions on social distancing, Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said.

But he added that two clusters of infections linked to a bar and a crowded boxing match showed the need to limit public gatherings.

"In this situation, prevention and treatment are the number one priorities. We have to prioritize people's lives over tourism and economic impacts. We don't know how tough the upcoming battle will be," Wissanu said.

He also recommended that government employees work from home if they can.

The new measures were decided on by a special coronavirus task force chaired by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha.

Thailand reported 33 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, bringing its total tally to 147. One person has died of the virus in Thailand.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/update-1-thailand-plans-to-close-bars-schools-halt-cockfights-to-curb-coronavirus/ar-BB11fFN2


heheh.
Had me @ cockfights

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post and two reports from BBC News:


Virus puts paid to Songkran

Govt insists country hasn’t hit Stage 3 yet

published : 17 Mar 2020 at 06:54
writer: Post Reporters

The government will postpone the Songkran holiday and ban large public gatherings, including entertainment venues, sport and education activities, in fresh efforts to handle the spread of Covid-19.

Still, it insists that the country has not yet entered Stage 3, when community transmission of the virus becomes widespread.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, meanwhile, called for calm and assured that efforts to delay the spread of the virus were not in vain.

“The virus will be with us for some time. I understand the difficulties and the pain, but we must be patient in fighting and surviving this crisis. I thank everyone who has been working and the Thai people. Thailand will prevail,” said Gen Prayut who appeared in a televised broadcast.

He said the number of confirmed cases rose sharply over two days but fake news had exaggerated the numbers. This had led some people to go out panic buying. He insisted that there was no need to hoard goods . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1880290/virus-puts-paid-to-songkran


Thais test positive for Covid-19 after KL event

published : 17 Mar 2020 at 05:09
writer: Post Reporters

Two out of the 132 Thais who attended a religious event in Malaysia that has been linked to a series of coronavirus infections have tested positive for Covid-19.

The latest infections were announced by the Public Health Ministry’s Division for Communicable Diseases, Sophon Iamsirithawon, who said both patients are currently under the care of doctors, but stopped short of saying whether the patients are from Narathiwat, Yala or Pattani.

The disease hasn’t spread to others, he said.

The Office of the Chularatchamontri has demanded a list of all 132 Thai participants, after scores of people who attended the “Qudamak Ulama Malaysia” event — held at Sri Petaling Mosque in Kuala Lumpur between Feb 27-Mar 2 — tested positive for Covid-19 . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1880315/thais-test-positive-for-covid-19-after-kl-event

And from BBC News . . .


Coronavirus: Germany and France announce strict measures

17 March 2020

Germany and France have imposed stringent new measures to limit social contact as countries across Europe try to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced an enforced lockdown, a step similar to curbs imposed by Italy and Spain, saying: "We're in a health war".

Mr Macron also said the European Union's external borders would be closed to travellers from Tuesday.
In Germany, most non-grocery shops and venues have been ordered to shut.

Chancellor Angela Merkel also banned religious services and told people to cancel any domestic or foreign holiday travel. Schools across the country have already been shut.

In the UK, Prime Minister Boris Johnson did not announce compulsory restrictions but urged people to avoid pubs and clubs and refrain from non-essential travel or having contact with others . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-51918596


Coronavirus: PM says everyone should avoid office, pubs and travelling

17 March 2020

The PM has said everyone in the UK should avoid "non-essential" travel and contact with others to curb coronavirus - as the country's death toll hit 55.

Boris Johnson said people should work from home where possible as part of a range of stringent new measures.
Pregnant women, people over the age of 70 and those with certain health conditions should consider the advice "particularly important", he said.

People in at-risk groups will be asked within days to stay home for 12 weeks.
More than 1,500 people have tested positive for the virus in the UK - but the actual number of cases is estimated to be between 35,000 and 50,000.

The key new government measures are:

• Everyone should avoid gatherings and crowded places, such as pubs, clubs and theatres
• Everyone should work from home if they can
• All "unnecessary" visits to friends and relatives in care homes should cease
• People should only use the NHS "where we really need to" - and can reduce the burden on workers by getting advice on the NHS website where possible
• By next weekend, those with the most serious health conditions must be "largely shielded from social contact for around 12 weeks"
• The UK is now "three weeks" behind Italy - the worst-hit country in Europe
• If one person in any household has a persistent cough or fever, everyone living there must stay at home for 14 days
• Those people should, if possible, avoid leaving the house "even to buy food or essentials" - but they may leave the house "for exercise and, in that case, at a safe distance from others"
• Schools will not be closed for the moment

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-51917562

[arsenal]

An interesting if scary article. The numbers on human population growth are staggering.

http://m.nautil.us/issue/83/intelligence/the-man-who-saw-the-pandemic-coming?utm_source=pocket-newtab

[Jellybean]

Let me begin by saying that last night I received the following email message from the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO):


As countries respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including travel and border restrictions, the FCO advises British nationals against all but essential international travel. Any country or area may restrict travel without notice.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus

Yet again I am left wondering if it would be better to remain in Thailand for the next four weeks or should I curtail my holiday and return to the UK early.

And today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post and two reports from BBC News:


Hundreds of hospital beds readied

Ministry prepares for Covid-19 'crisis level'

published : 18 Mar 2020 at 04:40
newspaper section: News
writer: Apinya Wipatayotin

The Ministry of Public Health insists there will be sufficient hospital beds to accommodate Covid-19 patients, saying 400 will be ready in hospitals in Bangkok by this week.

Dr Somsak Akhasilp, director-general of the Department of Medical Services under the ministry, told media on Tuesday that the public had no reason to worry about a shortage of hospital beds to accommodate virus victims . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1880810/hundreds-of-hospital-beds-readied


30 new Covid-19 cases

published : 18 Mar 2020 at 04:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Post Reporters

Thailand reported 30 new coronavirus cases -- including three foreigners -- yesterday, raising the total to 177, Sukhum Karnchanapimai, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Public Health said.

Dr Sukhum divided the new infections into two groups. The first comprised 14 people who were in close contact with previous patients or were associated with places previous patients had visited: 11 cases from a boxing stadium, one from an entertainment venue and two people who were in close contact with previous patients.

The second group involved 16 new patients, including nine who recently arrived from other countries and one who worked closely with foreigners. Six other patients in this group were under investigation . . .

Link: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1880990/30-new-covid-19-cases#cxrecs_s

And from BBC News . . .


Coronavirus: European Union seals borders to most outsiders

18 March 2020

The European Union will ban travellers from outside the bloc for 30 days in an unprecedented move to seal its borders amid the coronavirus crisis.

The measure is expected to apply to 26 EU states as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. UK citizens will be unaffected.

The ban came as deaths continued to soar in Italy and Spain, and France began a strict lockdown.

Europe has been badly hit by the virus, which has killed 7,500 globally.

Meanwhile, the Euro 2020 football competition has been postponed by a year.

The virus has infected more than 185,000 people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-51927790


Coronavirus: Emergency cash to help businesses, while operations delayed

18 March 2020

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has unveiled an "unprecedented" set of financial measures to support the UK economy through the coronavirus pandemic.

They include mortgage "holidays" for those in financial difficulty as well as £330bn in loans and £20bn in other aid to protect businesses facing losses as a result of the virus.

Meanwhile all non-urgent operations in England and Scotland will be postponed to free up beds for virus patients.

It comes as the UK death toll hit 71.

The government's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said it would be a "good outcome" for the UK if the number of deaths from the virus could be kept below 20,000.

"Never in peacetime have we faced an economic fight like this one," Mr Sunak said at a Downing Street press conference, as he detailed measures to ease financial burdens caused by the virus . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-51933410

And lastly, I attach another item I saw on facebook, it’s a public notice dated 19th October 1918 from the City of Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, which could, over 100 years later, be just as applicable today:

9763

[dinagam]

[QUOTE=arsenal;265648]An interesting if scary article. The numbers on human population growth are staggering.

How true indeed, as a result of too much sexual activities of the wrong kind...!?

[a447]

Yet again I am left wondering if it would be better to remain in Thailand for the next four weeks or should I curtail my holiday and return to the UK early.

The Australian government is telling those overseas to return home asap. The reason is that the country they are presently in may close its borders and you would be stuck there.

The other implication is that the home country might close its borders and you'd be shut out for who knows how long.

Would you really want to be stuck in Thailand? At the end of the day, that's the question that needs answering, IMHO.

[aot871]

I knowthe W H 0 is saying to keep social distance but this will never happen in thailand , when you get many boys living in the same room , some times up to 3 in the same bed

[dab69]

Hopefully bar closings, frequent showers, mask wearing, humidity, UV, and heat will have some limiting effect.

[Jellybean]

An update from the Bangkok Post:


PM: Third-stage Covid-19 would justify countrywide lockdown

Thailand still at stage 2, he says

published : 18 Mar 2020 at 16:59
writer: Mongkol Bangprapa

The government is making preparations to cope with a third-stage outbreak of the coronavirus, should it come to that - and it would include a countrywide lockdown, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said on Wednesday.

"The third stage means disease transmission to a second person, third person and so on. Thailand remains at a controllable stage," he said . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1881445/pm-third-stage-covid-19-would-justify-countrywide-lockdown

[Jellybean]

Two reports, one from The Nation Thailand and the other from The Thaiger:


Pattaya cleans up after tourist tests positive

Mar 18. 2020
By The Nation

There was another “Big Cleaning Day” in Pattaya on Wednesday (March 18), but considerably more serious than the usual litter sweeps of the beach.

As soon as it was reported that a 67-year-old Belgian tourist has been confirmed as infected with the Covid-19 virus, a major scrub was undertaken in the areas he’d visited.

The Belgian man arrived in Thailand on March 3, had drinks in Pattaya, spent the night in a hotel, and then went to stay at his wife’s house in Phetchabun province.

He fell ill on March 10 and went to the private hospital, where the Covid-19 diagnosis was made . . .

For the full report see: https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30384336?utm_source=homepage&utm_medium=internal_referral

And from The Thaiger . . .


Laos closes checkpoint at Thai border

Published 3 hours ago on March 18, 2020
By Greeley Pulitzer

Laos has closed its four immigration checkpoints near Thailand’s Nakhon Phanom province, saying it doesn’t have enough medical personnel to screen for the Covid-19 coronavirus at the four places.

Immigration Police Office in Nakhon Panom province were informed that Laos would close its immigration checkpoint at Thakhek port from 2pm, until the Covid-19 situation is resolved. Also yesterday, provincial governor Siam Sirimongkol announced that Laos and Nakhon Phanom would collaborate to close four local checkpoints, including the Thakhek port. Laos continues to allow travelers from Thailand to pass through the Third Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge at Nakhon Phanom . . .

For the full report see: https://thethaiger.com/news/regional/laos/laos-closes-checkpoint-at-thai-border

[Oliver2]

If I were Jellybean, I'd leave for home. Now.

[goji]

For those resident in Thailand, staying there and avoiding social contact as much as possible is a perfectly valid alternative. Remember, Thailand had COVID cases long before Europe and the USA, but the growth of cases has been at a much lower rate.

As for bar boys, those in good health will almost all survive this with no health problems.

They might have to survive with no income for a while, but for all those Khmer lads, it's still better than the 1970s were for their parents.

[Brad the Impala]

They might have to survive with no income for a while, but for all those Khmer lads, it's still better than the 1970s were for their parents.

Not genocide so can't be too bad then?! Would you say to Europeans that it's not too bad, you could have been in Dachau?

[goji]

Would you say to Europeans that it's not too bad, you could have been in Dachau?
Whilst coaching some older relatives, I did point out that the previous generation lasted through 6 years of WW2, so they can probably manage a few weeks of isolation at home. [Isolation with TV, internet, I-pads and so on].
This seemed to work.

People have put up with much worse than this. It really is worth remembering that.

Also, for the majority of board members who survive this, you've had a good lifestyle and will probably be having a good lifestyle in 2021.

Remember, even now, not everyone on the planet gets to live like this.

[gerefan2]

Jellybean, many thanks for your quotes posted above.
Any chance you can give us some information from somebody on the ground? How does Pattaya look with all the gay venues in lockdown? Have all the boys returned to the rice farm?
What’s there to do other than eat?!

[Jellybean]

Jellybean, many thanks for your quotes posted above.
Any chance you can give us some information from somebody on the ground? How does Pattaya look with all the gay venues in lockdown? Have all the boys returned to the rice farm?
What’s there to do other than eat?!

Thanks gerefan2. With regard to Pattaya, I was there for only four days and left on Sunday, 15th March. Things are changing so rapidly that I fear my info’ will be out of date, perhaps therefore someone still in Pattaya would be better placed to provide up to date information.

In the four days I was in Pattaya, I went to Sunee Plaza and Boyz Town, but not Jomtien. I have copied below a few photos I took in Boyz Town.

In Boyz Town I drank at Panorama Bar and went to X-Boys and saw a show for the first time in 2-3 years. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, there were lots of go-go boys, but few that were my type. At Toy Boys there were around fifteen go-go boys. I chatted with the lad I off’d during my previous visit, four weeks ago, but did not off him a second time, although I was sorely tempted.

In Sunee Plaza I sat with friends in Diamond Bar and I had a good time at Nice Boys Bar and off’d a cute MB. The majority of my liaisons were however through the apps.

Here in Bangkok, on facebook, a long-time MB friend posted that he and his MB boyfriend were both returning home due to lack of work in Patpong.

Apologies for the lack of real-time info’.

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[dab69]

https://www.yahoo.com/news/study-says-high-temperature-high-213034915.html

New study says 'high temperature and high relative humidity significantly reduce' spread of COVID-19

A transmission electron micrograph of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, isolated from a patient. The image was captured and color-enhanced at the NIAID Integrated Research Facility in Fort Detrick, Maryland. SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19. (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH)

A team of researchers unveiled the results of a new study last week that looked at how temperature and humidity may affect the transmission of COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus.

According to the researchers' findings, "High temperature and high relative humidity significantly reduce the transmission of COVID-19." An increase of just one degree Celsius and 1% relative humidity increase substantially lower the virus's transmission, according to the data analyzed by the researchers.

The study is the latest in a limited but growing body of research, not all of which has been peer-reviewed, that examines the effect of weather on the spread of the SARS-Cov-2 virus, which causes the COVID-19 illness.

[latintopxxx]

probably explains why it has hit cold weather locations the worst, singapore and hong kong and most of the southern hemisphere where its early autumn and still warm seems to have escaped the worst.
Only mystery is korea, its still frigging cold there but they seem to have it under control.

[Jellybean]

I received the following email from the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO):



Thailand travel advice

Change made
Updated information and advice on coronavirus (COVID-19) (‘Summary’, ‘Entry Requirements’ and ‘Health’ pages)

Time updated
6:13am, 19 March 2020


Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand?utm_source=67531e17-fc32-4e00-a915-741d5fafc15a&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_content=immediate

[Patanawet]

Last night, Wednesday, the bars in Silom soi 4 and Patpong that have a restaurant service and actual restaurants were allowed by the local police to open with reduced seating arrangements. then suddenly at about 6:30 panic instructions for all businesses to close immediately. Apparently the BIB had heard that a 'big' reporter/ photographer would be touring the district to report. This included actual restaurants. A few yards away in Silom Road it was business as usual in restaurants and bars. The closed business were told that this might be for a few nights only or until the end of the month.

[goji]

South Korea has it under control due to lots of measures taken to control it. They have a very thorough testing regime. [Offsetting the negative effects of a few fuckwit religious cults]

I've also noticed that case numbers haven't really grown over the past few weeks in the warmer countries like Thailand, despite a few early infections.

However, in the last few days case numbers in Thailand have really picked up, despite higher temperatures and humidity. Perhaps they need less aircon.

[Smiles]

For what it's worth: here in Hua Hin all bars are on shut-down as of today. Not certain about restaurants or night markets yet (we were at the Grand night market yesterday). Not closed but not many customers either. From observation most other business are open.

In grand Thai form, a goodly number of bars are using the locked-door-but-not-locked-door scheme wherein the horny Farang just knocks on the closed door and is let in. :crazy_mini:
The owner of the only gay bar left standing may resort to that, but I'm not sure yet.

[Jellybean]

. . . Also, for the majority of board members who survive this, you've had a good lifestyle and will probably be having a good lifestyle in 2021 . . .

I can live with your ‘probably’, goji and can picture myself back here this time next year. After all, if it was good enough for Carlsberg, it should be good enough for me. :)


https://youtu.be/Pzc9tttoI-I

Eh? What’s that you say? Carslberg (https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/carlsberg-probably-not-best-beer-in-world-lager-brewer-a8874016.html)admitted that they are 'probably not' the best beer in world! Oh no! Why did you have to go and spoil it? Well, in that case, better take a rain check in meeting you all again this time next year. ;)

[goji]

The owner of the only gay bar left standing may resort to that, but I'm not sure yet.
There were two last month, although I suppose Red Indian is hardly worthy of inclusion.

[Jellybean]

There were two last month, although I suppose Red Indian is hardly worthy of inclusion.

Ah! But, goji, as I believe Smiles can testify, the claim to fame of Red Indian Bar is that it employed one of the cutest and most glorious bubble-butt bar boys to walk the face of the Thai go-go bar scene. Sadly, I missed my opportunity, as I chose a hairy-butt boy in the belief that cute butt-boy would be available next time. But, by the time of my next visit, he was gone having, I believe, been conscripted into the Thai armed forces and, to my certain knowledge, he was never seen again on the go-go bar scene.

And, can you believe it, Arsenal* is being closed down? I never thought I’d see the day. :)

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*News story from The Times (https://www.thetimes.co.uk/)

[Smiles]

There were two last month, although I suppose Red Indian is hardly worthy of inclusion. goji, this is for you: I wrote this post in 2009. Red Indian was fun way back then.
Beware ... slightly off topic. Lets hope Jelly gives some leeway as it appears that we are talking about the same ass!


AN UPDATE MESSAGE:

Quote Originally Posted by From an old post regarding Bubble Butts in Hua Hin

" ... Just to add my own observation: as we speak, the Red Indian Bar in Hua Hin employs a sweet-Thai-smiler possessing the most scrumptious, perfectly-rounded, breathlessly up-lifted, sensuously curved from coccyx tip to leg top, dreamfully grabbable bubble butt I've ever had the pleasure to observe with eyes a-poppin' (yet remaining Mr Cool throughout, as long as one ignores the sweating upper lip).
This my friends, is an ass to travel for, a plane/bus/limo to catch for ... frankly, the most perfect derriere I'ver seen on a Thai guy ... "
As promised (and in response to the massive number of pathetic replies begging for 'A Name') I have done my duty for the Members of this board and can now ~ after intensive research ~ give the name attached to The Perfect Derriere: it is 'Nun' or 'Non' or (phonetically) 'Noon'. It was spelled for me as 'Nun', but my ear heard the sound of the long 'u' . . . thus more like 'noon'.

Just so as you do not think me overly cold or mercenary, I can also tell you that he is a very sweet guy, speaks some english (certainly enough to get by quite well in a host bar), handsome, and 20 years old.
Bob and I spent a very pleasant evening at Red Indian Bar sitting and drinking and talking with Nun and another (also very sweet) guy ~ who's name I forget ~ and it was probably the most easy-going and pressure-free time I've ever spent in a host bar anywhere in Thailand.

But to get down to specifics: Nun's Butt remains as luscious as one could hope for (see above), and he has an obvious natural sensuality with just the right level of underlying sexual desire to be, not pushy, but relaxingly pleasant company.

Off fee at Red Indian is 300 baht ... rest is 'up to you'.

Cheers ...

[dab69]

https://pattayaone.news/one-tourist-confirmed-with-virus-and-pattaya-goes-crazy/

https://pattayaone.news/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/3-10.jpg

[gerefan2]

https://pattayaone.news/one-tourist-confirmed-with-virus-and-pattaya-goes-crazy/

https://pattayaone.news/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/3-10.jpg

Now there’s an idea pay all the out of work Gogo boys, barmen, motor bike taxi drivers etc., etc., and all the rest to clean up the place. By god it needs it in some areas.

[Moses]

Song of professor on remote teaching


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCe5PaeAeew

[goji]

I wonder if his hotel bathroom is still covered in grime & mould, or did that also get the special treatment ?

[Impulse]

I’m still here at Yensabai and I’m scheduled to leave April 5. I sort of feel at times I’m the only one here, it’s that quiet.

My boyfriend is staying with me and I’m a bit worried that he’s leaving at the end of this week. I always eat out, usually at central marina food court or Salt and Pepper but I’m anxious about catching the virus while there. I’ve been over eating too much junk stuff, rice, coke light, bread,etc as I only eat out once a day now.

Sunnee has closed down. The Elephant bar and rooms are open, and NS travel lady is open, even though I never see any customer there. I bought my new ticket there as my Air China flight was cancelled. I’m very apprehensive about flying for obvious reasons. Not much to do now but go to beach . And I just renewed my visa extension for a year. As I look out at Sunnee, it’s dark and silent.

[Impulse]

I should have said Sunnee has temporarily closed down. Walking soi vc and the area is noticeably less active. Even the reckless Arabs are no where to be seen. They had just opened shops geared towards them, like desert shops etc and they look abandoned.

[dab69]

Nice Boys staff :
On the (March) 21st day, visit Koh Lan. Board the boat 09:30 Meet at the Bali Hai Pier, have liquor, hors d'oeuvres. Which staff will fish, prepare equipment as well. If anyone has a backpack, bring with them. Therefore inform


from Facebook and Google Translate

[Nirish guy]

Rocket, I’m not sure what age you are but if older can I seriously and strongly suggest you curtail your trips out and about there. Even if the Thai authorities haven’t yet pressed the big red “you must isolate/lockdown” you REALLY should anyway. The rest of us in Europe are now experiencing the reality and bite of the corona outbreaks and Thailand will be overcome VERY soon too ( as you’re starting to see already), so whilst I know you’re on your hols etc maybe think about reducing your trips out and about and kick back in your own room as much as possible to make sure you MAKE it home in one piece perhaps. :-(

[gerefan2]

I should have said Sunnee has temporarily closed down. Walking soi vc and the area is noticeably less active. Even the reckless Arabs are no where to be seen. They had just opened shops geared towards them, like desert shops etc and they look abandoned.

The Arabs go home for Ramadan. Nothing to be missed there.
You have more chance of catching the disease in the UK than Thailand. Just look at the stats!
Don’t panic....

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post, one report from BBC News and one report from CNN:


Health certificates required of all visitors

Anutin says borders will also be closed

published : 19 Mar 2020 at 19:46
updated: 20 Mar 2020 at 06:49
writer: Reuters and Online Reporters

The government will extend the requirement of medical certificates and health insurance from Sunday to cover all visitors to the country regardless of nationalities to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Thailand reported 60 new coronavirus cases, the biggest daily jump in the number of cases so far to take its total infections to 272, the Public Health Ministry said on Thursday . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1882315/health-certificates-required-of-all-visitors


Calls for lockdown mount

Chuan set to forward proposal to Prayut

published : 20 Mar 2020 at 06:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Aekarach Sattaburuth

Six former House and Senate speakers have called on the government to put the country under lockdown and ban entry to foreign travellers.

Two former Senate speakers, Suchon Chaleekrua and Nikhom Wairatpanich, presented the proposal on Thursday to Parliament President Chuan Leekpai who promised to forward it to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

The proposal was raised at a meeting attended by the six former speakers. Four others who support the proposal are former House speaker Arthit Ourairat, former Senate speakers Sanit Worapanya, Gen Thiradej Meepian, and Prasopsuk Boondej . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1882395/calls-for-lockdown-mount

And from BBC News . . .


Coronavirus: Italy's death toll overtakes China's

19 March 2020

Coronavirus has killed more people in Italy than in any other country, after deaths there rose by 427 in a day.

The number of deaths now stands at 3,405, which is more than in China where the virus originated last year.

There have been 3,245 reported deaths in China, but there have been questions over the reliability of its data.

A lockdown imposed on 12 March in Italy has been extended beyond the original 25 March end date. Nearly all Italians have been told to stay at home . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-51964307

And from CNN . . .


State Department warns US citizens not to travel abroad due to coronavirus pandemic

By Jennifer Hansler, Nicole Gaouette, Kylie Atwood and Lauren Fox, CNN
Updated 2049 GMT (0449 HKT) March 19, 2020

Washington (CNN) The US State Department on Thursday warned American citizens not to travel abroad due to the coronavirus pandemic, issuing the highest possible level of travel advisory.

The Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory "advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19."

The State Department urged Americans "in countries where commercial departure options remain available" to "arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period.". . .

For the full report see: https://edition.cnn.com/2020/03/19/politics/state-department-travel-advisory/index.html

[Jellybean]

If I were Jellybean, I'd leave for home. Now.

A few weeks ago on February 26 & 27 at posts 131 & 135 I first raised my concerns about getting back to the UK, but since I had cancelled last year’s trip to Thailand, I was most reluctant to cut short this year’s trip if it could possibly be avoided. But everyone has seen how rapidly the situation has changed worldwide since I first raised my concerns.

And on Wednesday, with just an hour’s notice, my gym and the condo swimming pool were closed for at least two weeks, although the next day the pool was opened, but the poolside restaurant announced they would not be open in the evenings until further notice.

I had already discussed with friends and family back in the UK the possibility of me returning early and their advice was to bite the bullet and return home just in case the UK or Thailand closed its borders and I was stranded here in Thailand. On Wednesday, it was therefore with a heavy heart, that I finally decided to curtail my current trip to Thailand and return to the UK, four weeks ahead of schedule.

When I reached the offices of Emirates Airlines on Wednesday, it was apparent that I wasn't the only one thinking now was the time to 'get out of Dodge'! It was mobbed, just as it was at the time of the Icelandic volcano, Eyjafjallajökull, back in 2010, when I last had to cut my Thai holiday short and fly home early. No one, it seemed, wanted to take the chance of the Thai Government putting the country in lock-down (See today’s news report in the Bangkok Post in my previous post). After waiting over two hours, I successfully changed my ticket from April 16 to March 21. My flight to the UK leaves early on Saturday morning, but I shall be checking out of my condo later on tonight. I realise my decision is probably the right one, but I still feel deeply sad at having to cut my holiday short. But hey, there's always next year (probably))!

Normally, one week before my departure date I arrange for either Tesco or Sainsbury’s to make a grocery home delivery on the day of my arrival, as I’m usually too exhausted to go out shopping. When I tried to arrange a home delivery both Tesco and Sainsbury’s had no available slots for the next three weeks! I’ve been listening to callers on the radio back in the UK complaining about the empty shelves in supermarkets, so I wasn’t entirely surprised.

And my sister has also sent me photos of empty supermarket shelves. She very kindly offered to do her best and obtain some basics for me, which will see me through the weekend. Other friends have advised me to bring loo rolls and pasta back with me! :)

And lastly, I was wondering what photos I should attach to this post and it seemed entirely apposite to attach some pics taken at my local supermarket here in Bangkok. A sight some in the UK might not be familiar with, I speak of a store with goods on display, not empty shelves! Oh for the good ol' pre-apocalypse days, eh? LOL! See also the photo taken from facebook, which I think is particularly relevant.

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[Manforallseasons]

Government contemplates worst case senario:

https://pattayaone.news/thailand-prepares-for-nationwide-lockdown-if-covid-19-outbreak-worsens/

[Oliver2]

Good luck with your flight home Jellybean. It must be deeply depressing to have to cut short your trip but I'm sure it's the correct decision. If I were to be isolated, I'd rather it be here than in Pattaya.

My experience of shopping in Sainsbury's , here in London, is that fresh food is available more or less as usual (at least it was on Wednesday) but canned items (such as soups) are in short supply as people panic-buy. Toilet rolls were available after a few days absence but the situation was not helped by customers buying two years' supply....I saw a woman stagger out of the shop with at least twenty. I suspect that food supplies may well be close to normal by the time you get back. ....certainly of fresh produce.

I'd be interested to hear about your arrival at Heathrow.

[francois]

A wise move, Jellybean. :heart:

[Jellybean]

Good luck with your flight home Jellybean. It must be deeply depressing to have to cut short your trip but I'm sure it's the correct decision. If I were to be isolated, I'd rather it be here than in Pattaya . . . I'd be interested to hear about your arrival at Heathrow.

Thanks Oliver2!

With regard to updating you on my experience arriving at Heathrow Airport, any other year I would have happily accommodated your request. But for the first time since I've been coming out to Thailand, I won't be arriving at Heathrow. I’ve moved out of London and will be arriving at a regional airport. It’ll be a new experience for me. I'm not anticipating huge queues at passport control and expect to be on my way home fairly quickly after clearing baggage reclaim.

It’s hard to believe I’ll be back at Jellybean Hall tomorrow afternoon. :(


A wise move, Jellybean. :heart:

Why, thank you françois! :)

[goji]

My experience of shopping in Sainsbury's , here in London, is that fresh food is available more or less as usual (at least it was on Wednesday) but canned items (such as soups) are in short supply as people panic-buy. Toilet rolls were available after a few days absence but the situation was not helped by customers buying two years' supply....I saw a woman stagger out of the shop with at least twenty. I suspect that food supplies may well be close to normal by the time you get back. ....certainly of fresh produce.

I'd be interested to hear about your arrival at Heathrow.


They should fined people for panic buying toilet roll etc. Or better still, arrange a public flogging. We need something to bring all these stupid selfish bastards into line.

I went shopping on Wednesday morning, to one of those nice German supermarkets. The car park is usually almost empty at that time, but it was almost full.

I had no problem getting enough to eat, but certain items had run out.
I normally buy UHT milk and usually just put a box of 12 cartons in the trolley. Seeing they were a bit low, I showed some social responsibility and cut back to 5. I was only allowed to take 2 cartons, due to purchase restrictions. At this rate, I'm going to have to INCREASE my frequency of supermarket visits, when decreasing it would be preferable.

If you can buy hand sanitiser in Thailand, get some.

[Manforallseasons]

Update: https://www.gaybuttonthai.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=10270#p100129

[Manforallseasons]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1883570/bangkok-malls-to-close-from-sunday

[arsenal]

Ironically the safest country is probably China. Two weeks self isolation * not only for those coming into the country but even those travelling from a different city.

* Policed, and a bloody good talking to if you sneak out at midnight to buy biscuits cos you think no one is looking.

The result is that life is returning to normal with restaurants open and supermarket shelves groaning with goods and produce. People are even swimming in the lake such is the balmyness of the weather. Outside, mask wearing is becoming less common. Only mass gatherings are prohibited so nightclubs are still closed.

[Moses]

Ironically the safest country is probably China. Two weeks self isolation * not only for those coming into the country but even those travelling from a different city.

* Policed, and a bloody good talking to if you sneak out at midnight to buy biscuits cos you think no one is looking.

The result is that life is returning to normal with restaurants open and supermarket shelves groaning with goods and produce. People are even swimming in the lake such is the balmyness of the weather. Outside, mask wearing is becoming less common. Only mass gatherings are prohibited so nightclubs are still closed.

Here in Moscow everyone Russian tourist who came from abroad must to keep himself at home for 14 days. Few years ago city had installed cams with face recognizance in the lobby of each building with apartments for to fight with thefts . Now they use them also for to control self isolation: every tourist have to fill form with obligation to stay in home and fill address. Govt adds each of them into database and starts to monitor.

As per stories from tourists few of them went out for some reasons, in each case police took them from streets in 15 minutes. For first time penalty is unbelievably small ($10), for second $100, at third time person will be arrested and locked in hospital.

In general situation here is very relaxed. City has the same amount of ventilators for sick people as whole Italy has (5000+) and about 10 000 reanimation beds, all flights from abroad lands to one only terminal F of Sheremetievo airport instead of landing to all 4 Moscow airports and passengers are scanned for sickness. Since first case in January here are about 150 cases for now (253 in whole Russia). Situation with ventilators and reanimation beds in whole Russia is also good, counting only state hospitals 27.3 ventilators per every 100K persons (compare: USA 18.8, UK 12.9, Italy 8.3)

One of city's hospitals for people with infections:
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[dinagam]

Good news Moses.
I'm sure Putin will handle this issue better than the Western governments.
Yesterday I watched on YouTube an excellent concert by the famous Russian pianist, and a few jazz musicians playing in an empty concert hall for the audience at home.

[cdnmatt]

Yeah, and I remember yesterday watching an interview with a US nurse who was over joyed with the support from her fellow Americans who she found on Twitter and other social media, and decided to bring out their sewing machines to begin manufacturing medical masks because the US federal govt seems wholly imcompetent.

Good times...

are getting

[Manforallseasons]

Good news Moses.
I'm sure Putin will handle this issue better than the Western governments.
Yesterday I watched on YouTube an excellent concert by the famous Russian pianist, and a few jazz musicians playing in an empty concert hall for the audience at home.

Surely Putin’s opponents are the ones infected!

[dinagam]

Surely Putin’s opponents are the ones infected!

I pray that they are being spared even though they are the belligerent ones. These are troubled times economically and emotionally for the majority of people and their dependents whose fast depleting resources are making their daily lives very challenging and dire.
May the magnanimous and saintly Angela Merkel lead this fight with valour and dedication as shown by Putin and his government.

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight one report from the Bangkok Post, three reports from BBC News and attach three photos I took at Suvarnabhumi Airport:



Thailand reports 188 new coronavirus cases, brings total to nearly 600

published : 22 Mar 2020 at 12:00
writer: Reuters

Thailand reported 188 new coronavirus infections on Sunday, its largest daily increase, taking the total to 599 cases, a senior Public Health Ministry official said.

The majority of the new infections are connected to a previous cluster of cases from Lumpini boxing stadium, ministry spokesman Taweesin Wisanuyothin told a news conference adding one patient had recovered.

"Most of the new cases were found in Bangkok and were among young people who continue to have social activities, which can lead to more infections," Dr Taweesin said urging the public to stay home.

There has been one death in Thailand.

Link to news story: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1884025/thailand-reports-188-new-coronavirus-cases-brings-total-to-nearly-600

And from BBC News . . .


Coronavirus: Boris Johnson in Mother's Day warning amid concern for NHS
Link to story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-51991887


Coronavirus: Australian PM warns of lockdowns
Link to story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-australia-51992357


Coronavirus: Lombardy region announces stricter measures
Link to story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-51991972

And below I attach three photos I took at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Saturday morning, which was, as expected, looking very quiet. My temperature was tested at one of the entrances to the airport before I was admitted. As my temperature was normal a blue stick on dot was placed on my right upper arm.

It was the quickest I had ever made my way through check-in, security and passport control. At passport control my finger prints were once again checked on an electronics device.

During the second leg of my flight back to the UK a flight attendant told several passengers near me that Emirates will stop flying into my local airport on Monday, so another good reason that I am pleased I took the decision to cut short my holiday in Thailand.

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And with yesterday’s announcement of further closures in Bangkok (see list below) I am now happy to be back at home rather than stranded in a rented apartment in Bangkok with very little to do.

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[cdnmatt]

Come on punters, do your job here! Grab a bunch of young and cute guys, and convince them to stay home with you.

Ok, very poor taste I will admit. I'm doing my job though, and this social distance thing will be happening for a good 6 months, so settle in.

[Smiles]

"... I'm doing my job though, and this social distance thing will be happening for a good 6 months, so settle in ..."And you're writing this from a Canadian provincial jail I assume. Out of touch as always. All about yourself as always.

[aot871]

Emirates to stop flying from wednesday

[francois]

Yeah, and I remember yesterday watching an interview with a US nurse who was over joyed




I believe you meant, listening to an interview, not watching one?

[gerefan2]

https://onemileatatime.com/emirates-cancels-flights/

[gerefan2]

I believe you meant, listening to an interview, not watching one?

Just (another ) slip of the the tongue.
Standing by for tirade.....

[sglad]

Ironically the safest country is probably China. Two weeks self isolation * not only for those coming into the country but even those travelling from a different city.

* Policed, and a bloody good talking to if you sneak out at midnight to buy biscuits cos you think no one is looking.

The result is that life is returning to normal with restaurants open and supermarket shelves groaning with goods and produce. People are even swimming in the lake such is the balmyness of the weather. Outside, mask wearing is becoming less common. Only mass gatherings are prohibited so nightclubs are still closed.

Aww, that's lovely. Should we send the mainland Chinese a thank you card?

[cdnmatt]

I believe you meant, listening to an interview, not watching one?


Oh, don't even start. You'll get the old people all worked up again...

Yes, I say "watched" and not "listened to".

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post and one report from BBC News:


City exodus begins

188 new infections brings total to 599

published : 23 Mar 2020 at 04:30
newspaper section: News
writer: Apinya Wipatayotin & Wassana Nanuam

Travellers wait to board their buses at the crowded Mor Chit bus terminal in Bangkok on Sunday. The exodus is believed to be triggered by the closures of 26 business types in Bangkok and five other provinces for three weeks to tackle the spread of Covid-19.

Almost 200 new infections were reported on Sunday, the highest one-day jump to date with the government hinting at more stringent measures on the way as the number of accumulated infections is predicted to surpass 1,000 in the next seven days.

In the wake of the announcement of a Bangkok "soft lockdown", scores flocked to bus stations to leave the city and the country.

The number of Covid-19 cases rose to 599 with most of the new cases concentrated in Bangkok, said Public Health Ministry spokesman Thaveesilp Wisanuyothin. Dr Thaveesilp reported an increase of 188 new confirmed cases . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1884190/city-exodus-begins


Thousands flee city for provinces in buses

Lockdown fears force many to risk health

published : 23 Mar 2020 at 05:30
newspaper section: News
writer: Thana Boonlert

The partial lockdown of Bangkok and the order by the Interior Ministry to close 18 border points taking effect on Monday triggered a massive exodus of Thais and foreign workers from Bangkok for their hometowns on Sunday.

Mor Chit Bus Terminal in Chatuchak district of Bangkok saw around 80,000 passengers leaving for their hometowns. Staff ramped up public health security by ensuring passengers wear face masks. However, few were able to observe "social distancing" among the large crowds packing into stations or buses.

While the agency is increasing buses to cater to demand, it is in need of body temperature scanners and alcohol-based sanitising gel . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1884145/thousands-flee-city-for-provinces-in-buses

And from BBC News:



Coronavirus: Follow virus advice or 'tougher measures' likely, says PM

22 March 2020

Boris Johnson has warned "tougher measures" could be introduced if people do not take the government's coronavirus advice seriously.

The PM thanked people for making sacrifices but said people must follow social distancing guidance.
"If you don't do it responsibly... we will have to bring forward further measures," he said.

It comes as the number of UK deaths reached 281, including a person aged 18 with an underlying health condition . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-51998559

[arsenal]

Enforced.
https://pattayaone.news/bar-stays-open-in-pattaya-owners-arrested/

[Jellybean]

It is just as well that I left Thailand on Saturday, ahead of my planned return date of April 16, as the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) in the following email is advising British citizens travelling abroad to return now:


As countries respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including travel and border restrictions, the FCO advises British nationals against all but essential international travel. Any country or area may restrict travel without notice. If you live in the UK and are currently travelling abroad, you are strongly advised to return now, where and while there are still commercial routes available. Many airlines are suspending flights and many airports are closing, preventing flights from leaving.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight one report from the Bangkok Post and one report from BBC News about the situation in the UK.


Stay home 'or share Italy's Covid experience'

published : 23 Mar 2020 at 12:55
writer: Online Reporters

People must stay home and not socialise, or Thailand will become like Italy with coronavirus patients overwhelming health resources and medical personnel having to decide which patients to treat, or not, the dean of the faculty of medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, warned on Monday.

Prof Dr Prasit Watanapa issued his caution via the university's online television channel.

He said the number of people with novel coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in Thailand was soaring, like those of the European countries that were unable to control the disease . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1884640/stay-home-or-share-italys-covid-experience

And in the UK, we must stay at home and are allowed to go out only for the following reasons:

• Shopping for basic necessities
• Daily exercise
• Any medical need
• And travelling to and from essential work.

See the the report from BBC News:


Coronavirus: Strict new curbs on life in UK announced by PM

23 March 2020

Strict new curbs on life in the UK to tackle the spread of coronavirus have been announced by the prime minister.

From this evening people must stay at home except for shopping for basic necessities, daily exercise, any medical need and travelling to and from essential work.

Shops selling non-essential goods are being told to shut and gatherings in public of more than two people who do not live together are to be prohibited.

The UK death toll has reached 335.

If people do not follow the rules police will have the powers to enforce them, including through fines and dispersing gatherings, Boris Johnson said in a televised statement from Downing Street . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-52012432

[Jellybean]

Below I highlight one more report from the Bangkok Post, one report from Pattaya Mail, a link to urban Dictionary and a photo from facebook:


Thailand reports 3 more deaths, 106 new infections Tuesday

published : 24 Mar 2020 at 10:15
updated: 24 Mar 2020 at 12:09
writer: Apinya Wipatayotin and online reporters

The Public Health Ministry on Tuesday reported three more deaths of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) patients, increasing the toll to four, and 106 new infections, raising the total number of infections in Thailand to 827. The number of new confirmed cases was lower than the 122 recorded on Monday . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1885370/thailand-reports-3-more-deaths-106-new-infections-tuesday

And from Pattaya Mail . . .


Breaking News! Pattaya beaches restricted, more businesses close as Thailand reaches tipping point in coronavirus battle
By Pattaya Mail Reporters
March 24, 2020

For full report see: https://www.pattayamail.com/featured/breaking-news-pattaya-beaches-restricted-more-businesses-close-as-thailand-reaches-tipping-point-in-coronavirus-battle-292389

And from urban Dictionary a new word, Covidiot:

https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Covidiot

And related to the above, a photo from a poster on facebook suggesting a way to stop panic buying . . .

9782

[Jellybean]

I thank ChristianPFC for drawing my attention to the following article in the Bangkok Post:


Emergency decree coming Thursday

published : 24 Mar 2020 at 14:49
writer: Online Reporters

The government will declare an emergency and introduce new measures to combat the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) on Thursday, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said on Tuesday.

Government spokeswoman Narumon Pinyosinwat said the state of emergency would last about one month.

In his live televised announcement at Government House, Gen Prayut said new requirements to control the disease would be enforced and a committee would be formed to work them out on a daily basis . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1885475/emergency-decree-coming-thursday

[Jellybean]

The following email was sent to me by Emirates Airlines. Phew! Yet another reason to be glad I got out of Thailand in the nick of time:


COVID-19 UPDATE

Hello [Jellybean], the world has literally gone into quarantine due to the COVID-19 outbreak. This is an unprecedented crisis situation in terms of breadth and scale, from a global health, social and economic standpoint.

On 23 March, the UAE government directed the suspension of all passenger flights into the country within 48 hours. This is a measure to protect communities from the further spread of COVID-19. In line with this directive, Emirates is temporarily suspending all our passenger flights from 25 March 2020.

We are very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause, and rest assured that we will resume our services as soon as the situation allows. This is an unprecedented period in the airline and travel industry. But with your support, we are confident that we will be back and welcoming you on board again soon. For now please stay safe.

Sincerely,

Adnan Kazim
Chief Commercial Officer
Emirates Airline

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight three reports from the Bangkok Post, one report from Pattaya Mail and one report from BBC News:


New local Covid cases at 107, total 934

published : 25 Mar 2020 at 11:53
writer: Apinya Wipatatotin and online reporters

The Public Health Ministry on Wednesday reported 107 new local cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), raising the total to 934 with deaths unchanged at four, blaming the spread mainly on partygoers.

Dr Taweesin Visanuyothin, spokesman of the ministry, said the new cases were divided into three groups . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1886170/new-local-covid-cases-at-107-total-934


100 people denied entry to Thailand

published : 25 Mar 2020 at 05:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Post Reporters

Airport authorities have blocked almost 100 travellers from entering Thailand, with 73 of them being deported for not having enough special documents to meet special immigration measures to combat the Covid-19 disease.

They were among 4,533 passengers -- both Thais and foreigners who entered Thailand on Sunday via Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket and Chiang Mai airports, according to Dr Kajornsak Kaewcharat, deputy director-general of the Department of Disease Control . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1885810/100-people-denied-entry-to-thailand


Borders reopen for 2nd day

published : 25 Mar 2020 at 04:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Post Reporters

Thailand was forced to open its borders in the North and Northeast for a second day running as thousands of migrant workers from Myanmar and Laos demanded to cross over despite the temporary shutdown measures against Covid-19.

All border checkpoints were scheduled to be closed as of Monday, but officials had to bow to the demands of crowds of workers who waited anxiously near immigration control areas demanding to be allowed to go back home . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1885720/borders-reopen-for-2nd-day#cxrecs_s

And from Pattaya Mail they report on the story I highlighted from the Bangkok Post yesterday:


Breaking News: Thailand’s emergency decree enforced for one month to combat COVID-19
By Pattaya Mail March 25, 2020

For the full report see: https://www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thailands-emergency-decree-enforced-for-one-month-to-combat-covid-19-292682

And from BBC News:


Coronavirus: Trump hopes US will shake off pandemic by Easter
25 March 2020

US President Donald Trump has said he hopes the US will shake off coronavirus by Easter, even as New York's governor sounded the alarm that the illness is spreading faster than "a bullet train" . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-52029546

[Jellybean]

I thought members might be interested in the following, it is an extract from an article in The Sunday Times of March 22, 2020 by Tony Allen-Mills and Andrew Gregory with two related videos from YouTube:


In May 2018 a prominent professor at Edinburgh University predicted with uncanny precision how the next major threat to UK health would evolve.

Someone in China would become infected by an animal, Devi Sridhar, the university’s professor of global public health, told an audience at the Hay Festival in Hay-on-Wye. Then they would get on a plane to Britain. If a specialist as well connected as Sridhar saw the coronavirus coming two years ago, why were we not better prepared?

The daughter of a pair of Indian doctors who emigrated to America in the 1970s, Sridhar was born in Florida and studied medicine at the University of Miami. In 2003 she won a Rhodes scholarship and came to Britain to study at Oxford.

There she became friendly with another American visitor who shared her interest in the worldwide fight against contagious disease. Chelsea Clinton, daughter of Bill and Hillary, had followed in her father’s footsteps to Oxford to work on a thesis that was eventually entitled The Global Fund to Fight Aids, TB and Malaria: A Response to Global Threats, a Part of a Global Future.

The two women co-authored a book that took them to the Hay Festival for a joint talk. Last week a short video of Sridhar’s remarks surfaced on Twitter, and an element of remarkable prescience was added to the fevered public debate over the rampaging virus. “What a prediction!” marvelled one viewer of the video. “Superb and prophetic,” added another.

During a discussion of government preparedness for serious health threats, Sridhar argued for a global collaborative approach. “The largest threat to the UK population is someone in China who has been infected from an animal,” she declared. “Then they get on a plane to the UK. What good is it for the UK to be worried [only] about what’s happening here? It’s about those interconnections across the world. If you want to solve those problems, you can’t do it on a go-alone approach” . . .

Also attached to this post are two YouTube videos, the first showing a short 6 minute BBC interview held on March 15, 2020 with Devi Sridhar, Professor of Global Public Health at the University of Edinburgh. And the second video shows a longer, 1 hour 7 minute recording at the Hay Festival in Hay-on-Wye, Powys, Wales in 2018 in which Devi Sridhar and Chelsea Clinton discuss a book they co-authored entitled, Governing Global Health and at which Devi Sridhar declared “The largest threat to the UK population is someone in China who has been infected from an animal,”.

Link to article: https://www.thetimes.co.uk

Please note you will need to subscribe to The Times to fully access its articles.


https://youtu.be/m2OXbVaLeE8


https://youtu.be/RZrCiokyzfQ

[Jellybean]

The second video clip, which I attached in my previous post, was the wrong clip. I must apologise for this, the correct video clip of Devi Sridhar, Professor of Global Public Health at the University of Edinburgh stating that, “The largest threat to the UK population is someone in China who has been infected from an animal.” is to be found in the following link to the MailOnline:

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/video/coronavirus/video-2135258/Video-Health-expert-predicts-global-spread-Chinese-virus-2018.html

[Jellybean]

Latest news from the Bangkok Post:


Emergency decree bans entry to foreigners

published : 25 Mar 2020 at 17:58
updated: 25 Mar 2020 at 18:51
writer: Post Reporters

Foreigners will be banned from entering the country under the emergency decree being invoked to combat at the coronavirus pandemic.

The emergency decree comes into effect at midnight on Wednesday, and remains in force through April 30.

The decree bans all foreigners from entry at all entry points - the exceptions being shippers, diplomats, drivers, pilots and others permitted by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1886270/emergency-decree-bans-entry-to-foreigners

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight three reports from the Bangkok Post:


Immigration looks to cut crowding

Wants 90-day report to be made online

published : 26 Mar 2020 at 05:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Wassayos Ngamkham

The Immigration Bureau (IB) wants foreign residents not to come to its offices to make their 90-day place of residence report after overcrowding put paid to its attempts at one-metre social distancing against Covid-19.

Foreigners living in Thailand are being asked to process their 90-day reports at home via an online platform or, more traditionally, by post, IB deputy spokesman Phakkhaphong Saiubon said on Wednesday.

Applicants are usually required to report in person to immigration officers to complete the procedure . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1886400/immigration-looks-to-cut-crowding#cxrecs_s


All doors closed to foreigners

No curfew but public told to cooperate

published : 26 Mar 2020 at 04:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Mongkol Bangprapa and Wassana Nanuam

Thailand has banned the entry of foreigners and the government may impose a 24-hour curfew as its next step to tackle the spread of Covid-19 under the Emergency Decree which goes into effect on Thursday.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha announced on Wednesday the country would be under a state of emergency as of Thursday until April 30, as Thailand reaches a turning point in its battle with Covid-19 transmissions.

The armed forces will set up checkpoints across the country under the Emergency Decree and 16 first-level instructions have been issued following the prime minister's national address. A curfew is not imposed at this level . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1886395/all-doors-closed-to-foreigners


Face masks compulsory on all trains

published : 25 Mar 2020 at 06:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Post Reporters

As the spread of the new coronavirus rages on, all rail passengers are from Wednesday onwards strictly required to wear a face mask and leave sufficient space between each other while travelling on a train or waiting at a station.

These additional measures are in line with the Public Health Ministry's guidelines on preventing transmission of the new coronavirus and the 2015 Communicable Diseases Act, said Sorapong Paitoonphon, director-general of the Department of Rail Transport, as he on Tuesdayannounced the requirements . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1885665/face-masks-compulsory-on-all-trains

[latintopxxx]

Have there been any deaths in Thailand attributed to corona??

[Manforallseasons]

Have there been any deaths in Thailand attributed to corona??

4 that they admit to...but who really knows?

[Sen Yai]

Have there been any deaths in Thailand attributed to corona??

Yes:4. And 934 confirmed infection cases according to https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html

I think Thailand is taking this action as they want to close the stable door before the horses bolt. Taking learning from other countries’ experience.

India is acting similarly; they have closed their borders too and put the entire population of 1.2bn on lock-down.

Would you advocate taking a more relaxed approach? Like USA maybe? It was only 10 days ago that Trump believed USA did not have to prepare themselves. Now they have over 1,000 deaths and over 10,000 confirmed infection cases…in the last 24 hours alone. 65,778 total.

Latest: Putin will close airports for international flights from tomorrow….

[Manforallseasons]

Yes:4. And 934 confirmed infection cases according to https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html

I think Thailand is taking this action as they want to close the stable door before the horses bolt. Taking learning from other countries’ experience..

The stable door is open: https://pattayaone.news/locals-continue-to-return-home-from-bangkok/

[Jellybean]

I highlight a further two reports from today's Bangkok Post:


Stay home or face curfew, says defence chief

published : 26 Mar 2020 at 18:12
writer: Wassana Nanuam

Defence Forces chief Pornpipat Benyasri on Thursday asked people across the country not to leave home during this weekend in a bid to stem the rapid rise of coronavirus cases.

The general, who is in charge of security for the Covid-19 Administration Centre, warned a curfew is inevitable if his call falls on deaf ears . . .

For the full story see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1887060/stay-home-or-face-curfew-says-defence-chief


Anutin criticises 'careless' health personnel, apologises again

Health minister under attack on social media

published : 26 Mar 2020 at 20:25
writer: Post Reporters

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul criticised medical personnel infected with the coronavirus, drawing anger in social media until he apologised.

The Bhumjaithai Party leader told reporters no health personnel caught the virus while on duty . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1887115/anutin-criticises-careless-health-personnel-apologises-again


9783

[Jellybean]

Today, for the first time in three days, I went to the local supermarket here in the UK.

It was also the first time I had been out since HM Government advised us to maintain a 2m gap between other people. Under normal circumstances I would have just walked in to the supermarket, but never before in the UK have I seen people queuing to enter a supermarket. The security staff adopted a one in, one out policy.

And I don’t recall a time when any shelves were empty, specifically - toilet rolls, liquid soap, shampoo, shower gel and some tinned goods were either not in stock or in short supply. I did however manage to obtain nearly everything I intended to buy. As mentioned in a previous post; it is my normal practice to stock up on loo rolls, liquid soap, shower gel and cleaning products, so just as well I wasn't looking to buy any of those products as I would have been disappointed.

Below I have attached two photos I took as I stood waiting to enter the supermarket. The horrible weather added to the feeling of doom and gloom:

9784

9785

Now, just to lighten the mood, I attach below two items sent to me by an American friend:

9786

9787

[cdnmatt]

Yeah, it's the same here in Canada. The whole world is in lockdown mode at the moment.

I'm volunteering for the local taxi company right now, and getting them a proper online orderling / delivery system in place for day-to-day shopping like you mentioned. Register, get a virtual bank account / credit line with them, which you can top up with money as you desire online. Then go ahead, manage your address(es), place and track your orders. Upon submitting an order, you can submit special instructions (eg. leave the items outside by the garage door), the funds get deducted from your account, and the items ordered just magically appear outside your house a few hours after placing the order.

It actually took some effort to convince the taxi company to let me work for them for free, but managed it. In about a week, my community will have a new online delivery system in place, same as South Korea did.

Oh, and the Laos government pisses me off. I almost lost a good friend due to them and their propoganda, saying all foreigners are filthy and are bringing the virus, etc. Granted, it's understandable considering Laos got bombed back into the stone age during the Vietnam War, but still, don't do that...

[Mancs]

To my mind the American war, which some people call the Vietnam war, hasn't stopped: "Since 1964, more than 50,000 Lao have been killed or injured by U.S. bombs, 98 percent of them civilians. An estimated 30 percent of the bombs dropped on Laos failed to explode upon impact, and in the years since the bombing ended, 20,000 people have been killed or maimed by the estimated 80 million bombs left behind." https://www.history.com/news/laos-most-bombed-country-vietnam-war

[Manforallseasons]

...

[latintopxxx]

mancs...and your point is?! do u also want to rename the spanish flu...the mexican swine flu...the black death...???

[cdnmatt]

@Mancs -- I understand it, but it still doesn't make it right. I see reports like this coming out:

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2020/03/13/laos-govt-advises-employers-to-avoid-hiring-foreign-workers

So I can just imagine what their nightly news broadcasts are like. I almost lost a really good friend who I really care about.

After three weeks of him being distant with me, a couple nights ago I finally got... not pissed off, but lovingly impatient with him. I finally managed to get him to come back around to me, and he confirmed, he's scared because of the virus and the onslaught of propoganda that's currently happening in Laos about filthy foreigners invading their country with the virus.

I understand it, but it's still a pretty shitty government response. Then again, I guess Canada's borders are currently closed because we don't want any filthy Americans or Europeans coming in, so same type of thing, but still...

I don't care, I got my friend back, so I'm happy.

[Mancs]

mancs...and your point is?! do u also want to rename the spanish flu...the mexican swine flu...the black death...???

I'm not renaming it. Many Vietnamese call it the American War. I'm suggesting we reconsider what we call it. As for the so called 'Spanish Flu', according to wikipedia: "The Allies of World War I came to call it the Spanish flu, primarily because the pandemic received greater press attention after it moved from France to Spain in November 1918. Spain was not involved in the war and had not imposed wartime censorship." This is relevant to the current debate with Trump about what we call the current infection.

[cdnmatt]

PS. While we're talking about the virus, why is Trump threatening to send US military troops to the Canadian border?

Jesus christ is he ever stupid...

Nurses in the US are currently showing up at work wearing black garbage bags because there is no protection. Don't worry, nobody wants to sneak into the US at the moment.

[Smiles]

" ... why is Trump threatening to send US military troops to the Canadian border ...?"Post-1812?

This just in: in the UK apparently the PM (the stunningly handsome Mr Boris) has been tested as poz for the Covid-19.

( https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-british-prime-minister-boris-johnson-self-isolating-after-positive/ )

[bkkguy]

Today, for the first time in three days, I went to the local supermarket here in the UK. ... And I don’t recall a time when any shelves were empty, specifically - toilet rolls, liquid soap, shampoo, shower gel and some tinned goods were either not in stock or in short supply.

I have had fairly good experiences with supermarket trips in the last week in the Silom area in Bangkok - I was in Foodland in Patpong 2 today and Tops in Silom Complex earlier in the week, both were not crowded and had short checkout queues with everyone standing politely at the "social distance" marks on the floor and 99% of customers and 100% of staff were wearing masks, many Tops checkout staff now have full perspex face shields. Both Foodland and Silom Complex were doing temperature checks and had hand sanitiser at the entrance

stock wise it all looked fairly normal - no obvious empty shelves though the Tops pasta selection was not quite 100% but you could still get any pasta shape you wanted even if not perhaps the brand you wanted, but they had a good selection of fresh fruit, veg, dairy, meat, eggs, rice, packaged food etc. Foodland had no spinach or button mushrooms today (though that has been true on many of my trips there for quite a while) but as usual a wide selection of Thai and Asian mushrooms and any type of Thai veggi you might want and a good selection of fresh fruit, dairy, meat, eggs, rice, packaged goods etc. Neither had any small pump bottles of hand soap but no shortage of shower soap/gel, shampoo and other toiletries. Toilet paper shortages never seems to be a problem here - hand-held squirters seem to rule!

sourcing masks at a reasonable price in the area is still almost impossible but hand sanitiser and alcohol spray seem to be fairly easy to find at reasonable prices in Silom

I am fairly lucky that I have a 7-11 next door for fresh milk, bread and snacks, and a small Thai food shop just around the corner that is now offering take-away serves of stir-fries and curries at 40 Baht each but every restaurant in the area is working to organise take-away and delivery and foodpanda and grab food etc are living their wettest dreams

I am sure "your milage may vary" living in other areas and using smaller shops and fresh markets and being out of delivery areas - or being out of budget for deliveries - and the situation may change dramatically at any time - but at the moment I think I am happier here than being back home in Sydney, which hasn't been "home" for more than 25 years!

[a447]

Foodland and Tops appear to be doing better than the 2 major supermarkets here in Perth.

I haven't seen toilet paper in weeks! I have Japanese "washlet" toilets so that doesn't actually bother me, but it's scary seeing the empty shelves. In my local supermarket they seem to have given up on ever getting toilet paper again and have replaced it with bags of potato chips (crisps). Ouch!! Lol

Also gone missing : hand sanitiser, soap, laundry detergent, paper towels, rice, flour, shampoo, pasta and pasta sauce - all the essentials. Gone!

The locals haven't caught on yet that a lot of those products are freely available at Asian grocery stores. Thank God for Fuji supermarket! Shhh!

The worst thing is, I now have to cook! Good lord, that's something I haven't done in years! Restaurants are closed - takeaway only - but the lines are too long.

Bangkok seems to be a much better place to be at the moment.

If only!

[Jellybean]

I have had fairly good experiences with supermarket trips in the last week in the Silom area in Bangkok - I was in Foodland in Patpong 2 today and Tops in Silom Complex earlier in the week . . .

Thanks, bkkguy for the update on the supermarket situation in Silom, Bangkok. It seems very similar to the position I reported on in my post #334 on March 20, 2020 when I visited my local Tops Market in Sathorn, Bangkok. If only my present local supermarket was as well stocked.

Had I still owned an apartment in Bangkok and if I still had a 12 month visa, I may well have decided to remain in Thailand. But I didn’t own the apartment and the rent was very expensive and besides I had only a three month visa, which expired on April 16, 2020. So for me, I believe I took the right decision in leaving when I did.

I just wish we had better weather here in the UK. But our clocks are changing on Sunday from GMT to BST (British Summer Time) so that’s something to look forward to, no? :)

With regard to face masks, I read the following article in The Sunday Times of March 22, 2020 which may be of interest to some of my fellow members:


Virus-killing ‘snood’ mask ready for mass production

Jonathan Leake and Jonathan Ungoed-Thomas

Scientists have invented a reusable face mask, based on the snood, which can trap viruses – including the coronavirus – as frontline hospital workers run out of protective gear.

Researchers at Manchester University have helped develop a fabric with an anti-viral coating that blocks airborne droplets and kills any microbes hiding in them.

The breakthrough technology, originally designed for flu outbreaks, is going into mass production and will be made available to NHS staff, patients and the public.

The fabric of the snood is coated with a protein which disables viruses on contact. It can be washed several times before it loses its anti-viral powers. The firm behind the technology says it can make up to 1.3 million a week.

Sabine Flitsch, a professor in chemical biology at Manchester University, said the proteins on the fabric were designed to trap incoming viruses. She said: “The surface of the material is very adhesive to viruses and can inactivate them.”

The human respiratory tract is always under attack by microbes and has evolved defences to kill them. This includes secreting a mucus filled with proteins that latch onto the outer coatings of viruses, bacteria and fungi to disable them.

The Manchester research team used those human proteins as a template for their fabric coating. This was tested by researchers at Imperial College London, who pushed air containing viruses through the material.

The results showed that it stopped 96% of viruses - meaning there was still a risk of infection but much reduced from normal.

Paul Hope, technical director and co-founder of Virustatic, said the snoods could easily be given to patients with suspected coronavirus in hospital, even if they had breathing difficulties. He said: “The snood mask moulds to your face. It fits everyone.”

The firm said it had told Matt Hancock, the health secretary, it could supply many thousands of the masks.

And a similar story can be found on the BBC News website:


The 'virus-killing' snood

Designers claim the mask kills more than 95% of any viruses - including Covid-19.

The snood has been developed in response to the pandemic

The company hopes to make as many as a million-a-week and plans to reserve part of that stock for the NHS.

"We have been working on the anti-viral coating since 2011 but it's only in the last five weeks that we have developed the snood in response to the current pandemic," said Anna Roberts, of Virustatic Shield . . .

Link to BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-52008745

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[Jellybean]

And once again, just to lighten the mood I offer three photos which are doing the rounds on facebook:

For those interested in horoscopes, I think I can safely say that this one is spot on:

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And just in case you needed reminding to wash your hands, how about this toilet door:

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And lastly, for couch potatoes everywhere, your time has finally come:

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[Jellybean]

As Bangkok City Hall orders the closure of more places in Bangkok from Saturday until April 30, including racing venues, playgrounds at public parks and housing estates, libraries, museums as well as theatres and outdoor cinemas I highlight two reports from today’s Bangkok Post:


Banks branches shuttered this weekend

Friday's crowds lead to closures, people forced to use online channels to register for benefits

published : 28 Mar 2020 at 12:55
writer: Post Reporters

At least 10 banks have announced they would close their branches on Saturday and Sunday to help prevent the spread of coronavirus ahead of the registration for aid for self-employed people.

Commercial banks that made the announcements as of Saturday morning are Bangkok Bank, Kasikornbank, Siam Commercial Bank, Bank of Ayudhaya, TMB Bank, Thanachart Bank, UOB, Kiatnakin, LH Bank and CIMB Thai. State bank GH Bank also announced the closure on Saturday . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1888215/banks-branches-shuttered-this-weekend


Mass exodus may cause Covid-19 numbers to soar

published : 28 Mar 2020 at 06:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Mongkol Bangprapa & Apinya Wipatayotin

A medical expert has predicted that Thailand could have 2,000 new Covid-19 cases in the next couple of weeks as a result of people fleeing Bangkok for their home provinces in the wake of the partial lockdown and invocation of the Emergency Decree . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1887995/mass-exodus-may-cause-covid-19-numbers-to-soar


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[Jellybean]

And to lighten the mood, I once again share Covid-19 related posts from facebook:

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And for fans of the TV show, Peaky Blinders:


https://youtu.be/pvEWOBAzHf4

[francois]

Who are the Peaky Blinders and what language are they speaking?:devilsh:

[Oliver2]

The language is Brum. And British posters will know that Brummies "are richer than thow."

[bkkguy]

an interesting - and revealing - article in the Bangkok Post this morning:



Thai expats urge cooperation
Citizens abroad say personal responsibility key to fighting outbreak

Many Thais living abroad agree that their experiences of the Covid-19 pandemic in their adopted nations can serve as a valuable lesson for those back home
...
"We may have our so-called 'Thai style' of doing what we want, but during a crisis, there's no room for compromise"
...
"When the government announces measures, Thais will find excuses to defy them. On the other hand, [in France] people help each other and cooperate with the government"


Read the full article: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1887985/thai-expats-urge-cooperation

[bkkguy]

Had I still owned an apartment in Bangkok and if I still had a 12 month visa, I may well have decided to remain in Thailand. But I didn’t own the apartment and the rent was very expensive and besides I had only a three month visa, which expired on April 16, 2020. So for me, I believe I took the right decision in leaving when I did.

there is no absolute right or wrong decision here, it comes down to your personal situation and in making that decision we are all dealing with incomplete information and no way of predicting the future

my situation is almost the direct opposite of yours - I have a long term lease here and have been doing annual retirement extensions for more years than I care to remember after I finally retired. I have nothing to return to in Australia after being away for more than 25 years so did not seriously consider going "home" to spend 14 days in self isolation at a hotel then crashing at a friend's place and being the last thing they needed adding to their woes in the current situation in Sydney - even though they had offered a room

in the end who knows if Thailand, Australia, the UK, the US or wherever will be the best place to cope with the virus in the long term, and if things go seriously tits-up here and the food supply, the health system, or social order collapses I may well live - or not live - to regret ignoring the Australian government's decree to "come home now before it is too late" but like you currently "I believe I took the right decision" - the best I think we can do is hope that most of us making this decision, with all our disparate reasons, have actually made the right choice!

a bit too heavy perhaps - we need some more of your light relief!

[Jellybean]

Thanks for sharing, bkkguy. As you say, there’s no right or wrong in the situation expats and long-term visitors to Thailand find themselves in. I hope you can remain in Bangkok and ride out the current storm.

And since you asked for it, how’s this for a bit light relief. A friend sent me a Covid-19 related cartoon video clip on the app’ Line, which originated on Twitter, but I did not know how to post the video directly to the forum. But I traced it on Twitter, it is a bit naughty and might well fall foul of our rules, so for safety’s sake, I have posted the link in the Holding Room. It can be accessed by members only by clicking on the following link: https://sawatdeenetwork.com/v4/showthread.php?21359-Naughty-cartoon

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post:


Thailand reports 143 new coronavirus cases, 1 death Sunday

published : 29 Mar 2020 at 12:32
writer: Bangkok Post and Reuters

Thailand has 143 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of cases since the outbreak began to 1,388, the Centre for Covid-19 Administration said on Sunday.

Taweesin Wisanuyothin, the spokesman for the centre and the Public Health Ministry, said the country also recorded one new fatality, bringing the total number of deaths to seven.

The latest victim was a 68-year-old man from Nonthaburi who had attended a crowded boxing match at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium where there had been a cluster of infections, Dr Taweesin said.

The match was held at the army-run stadium on March 6. About 2,500 people attended the event that day.

The number of new cases was a significant jump from the 109 recorded on Saturday . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1888740/thailand-reports-143-new-coronavirus-cases-1-death-sunday


Phuket confirms another 6 new Covid-19 cases Sunday

published : 29 Mar 2020 at 15:05
updated: 29 Mar 2020 at 15:44
writer: Achadtaya Chuenniran

PHUKET: This southern island resort province has confirmed six more Covid-19 infections, bringing the total to 53, the provincial communicable disease committee revealed on Sunday.

The six new cases, all linked to the Patong area, come after six new infections were reported on Saturday.

Of the total of 53 cases, 46 are still under treatment while seven have recovered and been released . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1888780/phuket-confirms-another-6-new-covid-19-cases-sunday

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[Jellybean]

And to lighten the mood, I once again share Covid-19 related posts from facebook:

This was shared by a friend who served in the Royal Navy, the contents of which may now be familiar to many members:

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And perhaps a word of explanation is required for the next photo. During my recent visit to Pattaya I took it for granted that when I said “chips” that my fellow diners understood what I meant. To clarify then, chips = French fries. How ya doin’ françois? ;)

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And lastly, to end on a positive note:

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[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight four reports from the Bangkok Post and one from The NATION THAILAND:


Stranded Thais allowed to enter Satun
Link to story: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1888815/stranded-thais-allowed-to-enter-satun


New virus infections among health personnel soar
Link to story: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1888810/new-virus-infections-among-health-personnel-soar


Prisoners escape in Buri Ram jail riot after Covid-19 rumour
Link to story: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1888805/prisoners-escape-in-buri-ram-jail-riot-after-covid-19-rumour


Infections rise in Southeast Asia
Link to story: https://www.bangkokpost.com/world/1888800/infections-rise-in-southeast-asia

And from The NATION THAILAND . . .

Phuket locks down, brings all transport to standstill until April 30
Link to story: https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30385037?utm_source=category&utm_medium=internal_referral

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[Jellybean]

And once again, to lighten the mood, I post below Covid-19 related posts from facebook:

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And for some, perhaps a word of explanation is required for the next photo of the British Royal Family. The gentleman on the left of the photo is the Prince of Wales, the heir to the British throne. He tested positive for Covid-19 on March 25, 2020.

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[bkkguy]

the Bangkok Post print edition had a good graphic today along with their usual world infections table that provides a more interesting perspective on where Thailand stands in the world league table (sorry about the image quality - it was before my first g&t)

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it may be on their web site as well, I didn't notice it, but I hope they keep updating this

in the print edition classifieds section they are also publishing lots of useful links (almost ads) for food delivery, where to get tested etc (for Bangkok), but their level of serious reporting is still fairly disappointing compared to for example the Sydney Morning Herald, the Guardian or closer to home the Straits Times - though there are obvious reasons for that!

[francois]

[QUOTE=Jellybean;265841]
And perhaps a word of explanation is required for the next photo. During my recent visit to Pattaya I took it for granted that when I said “chips” that my fellow diners understood what I meant. To clarify then, chips = French fries. How ya doin’ françois? ;)

Thank you Mr.Chips or is it Monsieur Pommes Frites? :heart:

[Brad the Impala]

Surely it's Goodbye Mr Chips........

[Jellybean]

And perhaps a word of explanation is required for the next photo. During my recent visit to Pattaya I took it for granted that when I said “chips” that my fellow diners understood what I meant. To clarify then, chips = French fries. How ya doin’ françois? ;)


Thank you Mr.Chips or is it Monsieur Pommes Frites? :heart:

Monsieur Haricot, surely? Now, will the real one please step forward ... :))

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[Jellybean]

The most depressing news I’ve heard recently was when on Sunday, 29 March 2020 Dr Jenny Harries, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, said at the UK Government's daily Coronavirus briefing that the lockdown in the UK could go on for six months.

But without a vaccine how will they be able to quash the virus or even 'squash' it? And is it likely that the same 6 months restrictions could apply in Thailand?

See the following article published in The Guardian:


Coronavirus outbreak
UK coronavirus restrictions could last six months – deputy chief medical officer

Dr Jenny Harries says lifting lockdown too soon could risk second wave of infection

Kate Proctor
Sun 29 Mar 2020 18.11 BST Last modified on Sun 29 Mar 2020 18.33 BST

The lockdown in the UK to try to slow the spread of coronavirus could go on for six months and the country may not return to its normal way of life until the autumn, a key government doctor has said . . .

For the full report see: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/29/uk-coronavirus-restrictions-could-last-six-months-deputy-chief-medical-officer

And I really liked the following slide, which was posted on facebook. I thought it was worth re-posting here:

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[Jellybean]

And once again, to lighten the mood, I found the following video, posted on facebook, showing the daughter of a self isolating Welsh pensioner bringing her mother items from the supermarket rather amusing:


https://youtu.be/lGAtG8fKv4I

[Up2U]

the Bangkok Post print edition had a good graphic today along with their usual world infections table that provides a more interesting perspective on where Thailand stands in the world league table (sorry about the image quality - it was before my first g&t)

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it may be on their web site as well, I didn't notice it, but I hope they keep updating this

in the print edition classifieds section they are also publishing lots of useful links (almost ads) for food delivery, where to get tested etc (for Bangkok), but their level of serious reporting is still fairly disappointing compared to for example the Sydney Morning Herald, the Guardian or closer to home the Straits Times - though there are obvious reasons for that!

Seeing the charts using a per capita basis would be helpful.

[Moses]

Seeing the charts using a per capita basis would be helpful.

"per capita" isn't important: graphs show speed of distribution, in each country graphs start from moment of 100 cases, so they show how fast is spreading of virus, how fast 100 turns to 500 and so on... so graphs show how effective are acts of govts

[goji]

"per capita" isn't important: graphs show speed of distribution, in each country graphs start from moment of 100 cases, so they show how fast is spreading of virus, how fast 100 turns to 500 and so on... so graphs show how effective are acts of govts

Agreed.
There is also a lag of up to 2 weeks between government action and the daily percentage increase in the number of cases changing. And a much longer lag to the death rate. Unless some miracle cure is invented, it's too late to modify the death rate in ~3 weeks by much.


The population is approximately constant, so it's sufficient to see the number of cases per capita and deaths per capita as a figure, which is on the world meters site.
Click on the header to sort by column.

https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/

[dinagam]

the Bangkok Post print edition had a good graphic today along with their usual world infections table that provides a more interesting perspective on where Thailand stands in the world league table (sorry about the image quality - it was before my first g&t)

9810

it may be on their web site as well, I didn't notice it, but I hope they keep updating this



I hope the Thai authorities will also carry out tests on foreigners currently being held in detention centres and lockups for various offences.

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight one report from the Bangkok Post and one from The Guardian:


Nationwide night curfew starts Friday

published : 2 Apr 2020 at 18:57
writer: Online Reporters

All people in Thailand are banned from leaving home from 10pm to 4am starting Friday in the government’s latest move to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha announced the curfew on Thursday evening.

Exempted from the curfew are medical and banking personnel, as well as logistic workers handling consumer products, farm goods, pharmaceutical products, medical supplies and equipment, newspapers, petrol, postal parcels, or products to be imported or exported. Movements of people to quarantine places are also allowed . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1891810/nationwide-night-curfew-starts-friday

And from The Guardian . . .


Asian countries face possible second wave of coronavirus infections

Daily numbers of confirmed cases rising again as people rush home to beat border closures

Helen Davidson
Thu 2 Apr 2020 08.44 BST Last modified on Thu 2 Apr 2020 11.30 BST

Asian countries that started to feel tentative hope that their responses to the coronavirus pandemic were bearing fruit are now facing possible second waves, brought by a rush of panicked people racing home to beat border closures and quarantine orders.

As daily numbers of confirmed cases start to rise again, and new evidence of asymptomatic cases spark fear of unwitting community transmission, many have now brought in far stricter measures . . .

For the full report see: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/02/asian-countries-face-possible-second-wave-of-coronavirus-infections

[Jellybean]

After listening to a radio discussion about the reliability and alleged under-reporting of China’s total number of recorded cases and deaths from Covid-19, I highlight one report from The IndianEXPRESS and one recent report from The Guardian, which some members may not have seen:


COVID-19: China concealed extent of coronavirus outbreak, US intelligence says

Deborah Birx, the State Department immunologist advising the White House on its response to the outbreak, said Tuesday that China’s public reporting influenced assumptions elsewhere in the world about the nature of the virus.

By: Bloomberg | Published: April 1, 2020 9:45:21 pm

China has concealed the extent of the coronavirus outbreak in its country, under-reporting both total cases and deaths it’s suffered from the disease, the U.S. intelligence community concluded in a classified report to the White House, according to three US officials . . .

For the full report see: https://indianexpress.com/article/world/china-concealed-extent-of-coronavirus-outbreak-us-intelligence-says-6342592/

And from The Guardian . . .


Senior WHO adviser appears to dodge question on Taiwan's Covid-19 response

Canadian Bruce Aylward, who visited Wuhan in February, appeared to hang up or be cut off when pressed on Taipei’s record

Helen Davidson
@heldavidson
Published on Mon 30 Mar 2020 05.29 BST

A senior advisor at the World Health Organization (WHO) appeared to hang up on a journalist who asked about Taiwan’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, and then did not answer further questions because they had “already talked about China”.

It comes amid continued criticism of the WHO’s approach towards both Taiwan and China. Taiwan has been excluded from participating in the World Health Assembly after heavy lobbying from China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory . . .

For the full report see: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/30/senior-who-adviser-appears-to-dodge-question-on-taiwans-covid-19-response

[Jellybean]

And once again, to lighten the mood, I repost images first posted on facebook:

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[Manforallseasons]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1891810/nationwide-night-curfew-starts-friday

[Nirish guy]

There will be one hell of a lot of short time boys now switching to being "long time" -certainly between the hours of 10pm and 4am at the least !! :)

Actually I am joking and I hope the guys have the good sense to stay in their (overcrowded and probably equally dangerous !?) room/s and maybe just not bother going out for meets and "risking it" at all, but from the few facebook posts I viewed today today from a few Thai guys I know that doesn't quite seem to be the case unfortunately perhaps and like young people the world over there's no talking to them and they know it all and they're "fine" as it all 'ok for me now, no pob lem" .

[a447]

......and like young people the world over there's no talking to them and they know it all and they're "fine" as it all 'ok for me now, no pob lem" .

Many young guys, Thai or otherwise, tend to live for today and think tomorrow will take care of itself.

Here's hoping they get through this ok.

[arsenal]

It's well known that the coronavirus is a nocturnal being only coming out to infect during the hours of darkness. Thus this measure will certainly work.

Ok. I'm being obtuse but this highlights the huge problem that liberal countries are having. Namely that it goes against everything they hold dear to forbid people to leave their homes when they've done nothing wrong.

And it can't be marketed as being for the individuals own safety, people will take the risk. It needs to be made clear that they can infect other people.

[cdnmatt]

Does the Thai government not understand what an airborne infectious virus is, or what's up?

What the hell is the point of a curfew? Just because the government wants to give the appearance that they're doing something, I'm assuming?

Either lock down or open up. Take your pick, Thailand. Most smart countries have decided lock down, and it does work. Just check out the virus stats for Canada, and we as a country are actually doing quite well. Trudeau our PM asked us politely to all stay home, so we collectively as a country said "no problem boss", we stayed home, and our stats currently look to be on par with Soth Korea.

[Jellybean]

Following my reporting yesterday of the announcement on Thursday evening by Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha of the nationwide curfew, I copy below an email I received from the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) which summarises the curfew conditions:


Thailand travel advice

Change made
Latest update: Update on travel restrictions and local measures introduced to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) (‘Coronavirus’, ‘Return to the UK’ and ‘Entry requirements’ pages)
Time updated
5:25am, 3 April 2020


Coronavirus

Social measures

In response to the impact of coronavirus the Thai authorities have introduced measures that place restrictions on public gatherings. From the evening of 3 April 2020, until further notice, a nationwide curfew will be in effect daily from 2200-0400. The only exceptions will be medical personnel, banking sector workers, transportation of essential goods, commuting to and from the airport (with flight tickets), postal delivery, and those with official night shift duty. Violation will lead to two years in jail and/or 40,000 THB fine. You should follow local guidance (https://thailand.prd.go.th/more_news.php?cid=4&filename=index).

All malls in Bangkok are closed from 22 March – 30 April. Supermarkets, pharmacies, sections in malls selling foodstuffs and restaurants offering takeaway service remain open, although some restrictions on opening times have been applied. All entertainment venues such as pubs and clubs, and educational institutions are closed, as are popular tourist activities. Other provinces have imposed similar restrictions. Some provinces may impose stricter measures including curfews or lockdowns on certain premises. There are screening checkpoints in place for travel between provinces. An emergency decree came into force on 26 March 2020, initially until 30 April 2020 (subject to extension).

A number of measures have been outlined stating, among other instructions, that individuals must not:

• Enter high risk areas
• Hoard essential goods
• Attend public gatherings
• Propagate false information

The Thai authorities have advised the elderly (over 70 years), children (under 5 years) and those with pre-existing medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, respiratory diseases, lung diseases) not to leave their home except for essential purposes, such as buying groceries, conducting business transactions, going to a hospital or filing complaints to the police.

The Thai authorities have introduced instructions that all passengers must wear masks on all public transport. Many supermarkets and other businesses that remain open have the same requirement. The Thai Department of Disease Control linked the smoking of cigarettes to the impact of coronavirus. Smoking in public could result in a fine of up to 5,000 Baht. Electronic cigarettes are already illegal in Thailand and their use may incur further fines or imprisonment.

Since 26 March 2020 the Thai authorities have been implementing measures to deter travelling between provinces. A large proportion of internal bus and train routes are closed and there are some restrictions on travel between provinces. If you are taking an internal flight inside Thailand you are required to download the AOT Airports App and complete a T8 Travel Form. A number of regional airports, including Phuket, will soon be temporarily halting flights. There are a number of road checkpoints in place across Thailand so you should carry a passport as proof of identification when in public.

Internal travel is likely to become even more difficult. Further measures may be introduced at any time. All British nationals are advised to follow the advice of the Thai authorities.

Link to FCO website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand?utm_source=d5a6adbf-70bc-4704-9b9f-11610b4acd54&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_content=immediate

Link to Coronavirus page: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand/coronavirus

[bkkguy]

It's well known that the coronavirus is a nocturnal being only coming out to infect during the hours of darkness. Thus this measure will certainly work.

well the virus did originate in bats, so ...

[Nirish guy]

well the virus did originate in bats, so ...

ALLEDGEDLY !.......might have been that pesky Chinese Government if you believe Trump.....or that pesky American Government if you believe the Chinese.....or "maybe" it just came from bats.......my money is on the last one actually just as nature usually has a million better ways of kicking us humans in the balls when we need it than we can ever muster ourselves.

[goji]

ALLEDGEDLY !.......
In addition, I've also seen journalists blame pangolins & snakes etc. Usually stating it as a fact, rather than writing "may be from Pangolins, although this is not yet proven".

[Manforallseasons]

https://pattayaone.news/govt-will-impose-24-hour-curfew-if-covid-19-situation-does-not-improve/

[Nirish guy]

What part of GET IN WITH IT don’t they understand from watching the virus devastate other Countries I wonder !!??

I can only be generous and assume that like other Counties this is them gently trying to prepare their people for what’s coming in terms of full lockdown etc, but considering the average Thai won’t need to go out and panic buy toilet rolls as we for some stupid reason felt we needed to here in the West they really should just go straight to it now and never mind waiting the week to impose what HAS to come for the longterm good of their own citizens.

[dinagam]

ALLEDGEDLY !.......might have been that pesky Chinese Government if you believe Trump.....or that pesky American Government if you believe the Chinese.....or

Whatever is the origin of the virus, haven't you noticed that there are far fewer cases in Japan than the USA, which is probably attributed to the way they wear their masks?

[Manforallseasons]

https://www.pattayamail.com/featured/pattaya-hotels-beaches-closed-under-new-coronavirus-restrictions-294066

[Nirish guy]

My My you'd almost think all the "idiots" that commented on same earlier in the week about how desolate Pattaya was becoming and how it was facing a torrid time were maybe right after all eh ! :-p

On a serious note the closing of all hotels is one hell of a step up from the night time curfew and even the 24 hour curfew, I'm guessing that's going to give a lot of parang all sorts of major headaches now either trying to find a work around or to find somewhere to relocate to pretty damn quick ! I'm sure the hotels in Bkk will be taking note ( and either wondering will they be next or jacking up their prices accordingly ( or maybe just be glad of the possible new business !)

[Nirish guy]

And THIS the opening of an official government check down to look for Corona Virus cases - with their excellent social distances skills so evident give it a day or two and they'll not have to look too far !!! But hey it's Thailand, no way the boss is going to pass up his Photo Op to get his picture in the press doing great work for the people. This is one pic perhaps he'll look back on a wish they hadn't perhaps have taken when some of the people in it aren't with us anymore maybe due to their (own) stupidity !

98349835

https://www.pattayamail.com/news/sattahip-checkpoint-looks-for-coronavirus-victims-293357

[Jellybean]

Within the last few minutes I received an email from the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) as follows:


Thailand travel advice

Change made
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has announced the suspension of incoming international flights from 0001 on 4 April until 2359 on 6 April. Flights en route to Thailand when the change took effect can still land but those on board will be subject to 14 days’ quarantine. (‘Coronavirus’ page)

Time updated
7:42pm, 3 April 2020



An extract from the FCO Coronavirus page for Thailand is quoted below:


Entry and borders

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has announced the suspension of incoming international flights from 0001 on 4 April until 2359 on 6 April. Flights en route to Thailand when the change took effect can still land but those on board will be subject to 14 days’ quarantine.

An Emergency Decree entered into force on 26 March 2020, initially until 30 April. As part of this, the Thai authorities have barred all foreign nationals from entering or transiting Thailand except in certain limited circumstances. If you do not meet these criteria you should not try to enter or transit Thailand:

Link to FCO website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand/coronavirus

[arsenal]

Further to the article posted by JB about the predictability of a disease emanating from China. An inability to see a wild animal without the need to eat it coupled with the habit of spitting everywhere.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/medical/chinas-recent-history-of-deadly-epidemics/ar-BBZdrPx

[goji]

Further to the article posted by JB about the predictability of a disease emanating from China. An inability to see a wild animal without the need to eat it coupled with the habit of spitting everywhere.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/medical/chinas-recent-history-of-deadly-epidemics/ar-BBZdrPx

Live animal markets with various animals in small cages stacked on top of each other doesn't help. So one wild animal might crap directly on top of another wild animal in the cage below. Then they get slaughtered and cut up on the same chopping board.

Of course, even then matters would be much better had the WHO immediately recommended quarantine for all outbound travel from China. They were strongly recommending continuing travel for several weeks.

[Jellybean]

Today, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post:

Ah! So this was why all passenger flights have been banned from landing in Thailand until April 6th . . .


Thailand suspends incoming flights

published : 4 Apr 2020 at 07:51
writer: Reuters

All passenger flights have been banned from landing in the country to curb the outbreak of the new coronavirus, the aviation agency said on Friday.

The ban came into effect on Saturday morning and will run until the end of Monday, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand said in an order published late on Friday.

Anyone arriving on a flight that took off before the order came into effect will need to be quarantined for 14 days upon arrival in Thailand, the order said . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1893010/thailand-suspends-incoming-flights


Thai returnees told to report for state quarantine

Rule transition, conflicting understanding of 'quarantine' create commotion at Suvarnabhumi

published : 4 Apr 2020 at 15:59
writer: Online Reporters

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has ordered 152 Thais who landed at Suvarnabhumi airport on Friday afternoon and refused to enter state quarantine to report themselves before 6pm on Saturday so that they can be put into state facilities . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1893095/thai-returnees-told-to-report-for-state-quarantine

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[bkkguy]

Further to the article posted by JB about the predictability of a disease emanating from China. An inability to see a wild animal without the need to eat it coupled with the habit of spitting everywhere.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/medical/chinas-recent-history-of-deadly-epidemics/ar-BBZdrPx

so I have read the linked msn article and I could not find any reference to "[a]n inability to see a wild animal without the need to eat it" or "the habit of spitting everywhere" - did I miss something or are we just relying on personal prejudices and national stereotypes here?


Live animal markets with various animals in small cages stacked on top of each other doesn't help. So one wild animal might crap directly on top of another wild animal in the cage below.

sounds a bit like the description of the Chatuchak weekend market in Bangkok in a recent Bangkok Post article



Of course, even then matters would be much better had the WHO immediately recommended quarantine for all outbound travel from China. They were strongly recommending continuing travel for several weeks.

the Thailand gay forums on topics like this these days are getting more and more like reading the Bangkok Post "Comments" posts on their website, or one of the worse ThaiVisa forums

[cdnmatt]

Yeah, I'm getting pissed nowadays when people online start blaming China for the virus.

They do know that the Spanish Flu of 1918 originated in Kansas, USA, right?

Once this is all done and over with, lots of countries will have lots to answer for, China included. The US also has lots to answer for though, such as what type of shit show of a response was that? Once this is all over, my guess is Paris Accordd times 1000 will happen.

Nonetheless, leave racism out of it. This isn't the time.

[Oliver2]

We Europeans exported syphilis and smallpox to the Americas. The Arawak and Carib population of the "West Indies" was all but wiped-out...helping to provide the need (sic) for the import of African slaves.

[arsenal]

bkkguy.

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/reference/traditional-chinese-medicine/

[arsenal]

bkkguy.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/doc/2004-01/09/content_297515.htm

[arsenal]

bkkguy.

https://lijiazhang.wordpress.com/2013/05/17/chinese-tourists-abroad-and-chinas-spitting-image/

[arsenal]

bkkguy.

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/special-features/2014/12/141205-myanmar-burma-poachers-endangered-animals/

[Jellybean]

In support of health workers everywhere!


https://youtu.be/LrX0sPceTvM
Netherlands: You'll Never Walk Alone Sung & Danced at a Dutch Hospital | Nederland YNWA


9838
NHS = National Health Service (UK)

[latintopxxx]

cdnmatt....u r a disgusting piece of work,....bet u also deny the holocaust....

[bkkguy]

bkkguy.

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/reference/traditional-chinese-medicine/

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/doc/2004-01/09/content_297515.htm

(http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/doc/2004-01/09/content_297515.htm)https://www.nationalgeographic.com/n...gered-animals/ (https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/special-features/2014/12/141205-myanmar-burma-poachers-endangered-animals/)

with an expected sense of déjà vu I have read these three articles and again I could not find any reference to "[a]n inability to see a wild animal without the need to eat it" or "the habit of spitting everywhere" - again did I miss something or are we just relying on personal prejudices and national stereotypes here?

it is obviously this last point that you are, possibly deliberately, missing - or do you seriously expect me to believe that you see no difference in the tone and acceptability of your statements and the tone used in these articles?

I am not pushing political correctness here or trying to whitewash China's involvement in the issues raised in these articles or their handling of this new virus, but I hope people reading these forums are capable of drawing their own conclusions based on you initial statements and the articles you have linked to support them, because I don't see the point of continuing to play your game and beat a dead horse here!

https://lijiazhang.wordpress.com/2013/05/17/chinese-tourists-abroad-and-chinas-spitting-image/

I'm not surprised you liked this one, this blogger is cut from a much more similar cloth to you compared to the more professional links above, but I am sure you will not be too disappointed when I say I will take her any day

[dinagam]

Now everyone is wary of the Chinese, even Trump despite his bravado, and least expected an American comic hero...

[arsenal]

bkkguy.

https://www.heredg.com/2019/01/spittingculture-in-china/

[arsenal]

bkkguy.

https://startupbros.com/8-chinese-customs/

[arsenal]

bkkguy.

https://www.businessinsider.com/china-bans-wildlife-trade-consumption-coronavirus-2020-2

$74 billion.

[sglad]

They do know that the Spanish Flu of 1918 originated in Kansas, USA, right?

Who cares where the Spanish Flu came from. What's important is that many of our forum members survived it and are happily living in Pattaya.

[arsenal]

bkkguy.

https://edition.cnn.com/2020/03/05/asia/china-coronavirus-wildlife-consumption-ban-intl-hnk/index.html

[arsenal]

bkkguy.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/illegal-wildlife-trade-online-china-shuts-markets-200324040543868.html

[dinagam]

A cry for help.
I first met Wirat many years ago when he was running the Solid Bar in Soi 6, after that at a small watering hole in Soi Twilight, followed by the now defunct agogo bar in Patpong 1 that lasted for less than six months. I met him again as mamasan at Freshboys Patpong 2 towards the end of last year. On the first of January I came across him on Soi 6 as he was waiting to report for work at Tawan bar. Physically he has withered , his oversized jacket belied his scrawny frame, now that he's probably in his 6th decade of life.
I'm quite sure that some readers of this forum might recognize him.
I wish him luck.

[Smiles]

A gracious thought from the heart Dinagam.

[a447]

Yes, I remember him well, starting from his days at Solid.

He always seemed to have the weight of the world on his shoulders.

A nice guy. I also wish him well.

[Manforallseasons]

I remember him from Solid and the small bar he had towards the end of Soi Twilight...He was always pleasant and frail.

[Oliver2]

I was a very occasional visitor to Solid and so was amazed when years after it closed, he recognised me one evening as I strolled along Soi Twilight. He was clearly depressed by events and it is sad to know that worse was to follow.
Good luck to him.

[Nirish guy]

Who cares where the Spanish Flu came from.

SO surely by Trumps very own logic should that now really not just be called the American Flu - as it did as you say come from the the US, .....or to quote the ( not so ) great man himself "American, it came from Am Er Ic A". Funny how in his logic Covid is the Chinese Virus but yet the Spanish Flu ( from America) is STILL the Spanish flu ! Strange that eh.

Still perhaps we should be grateful as if he did rename it the American Flu then it would of course have been MUCH more deadly as it would have had to have been the BEST Flu ever and like nothing you've ever seen before......actually that sounds about right, yep, he should definitely rename it PDQ ! :)

[latintopxxx]

no proof that spanish flu came from america...data from those times is not complete, was first identified in kansas amongst soldiers returning from war zone hand. China virus did originate in wuhan...if u deny that then u r a holocaust denier. Funny that none complained when the mexican swine fever was named...is that because no one cares a fuck about offending mexicans...

[dinagam]

China virus did originate in wuhan...if u deny that then u r a holocaust denier.

Holocaust is simply what is happening around the world today from the activities of the military-industrial complex and the deep state in the USA. Look around and you see their bloodied fingerprints every where from Iraq to Venezuela etc.
By the way didn't the American army athletes take part in a military sport event in Wuhan last year? And perchance leaving behind a corona as a souvenir.

[Nirish guy]

...if u deny that then u r a holocaust denier. ..


But more importantly why are you trolling post after post here with that phrase desperately trying to get someone to bite for a reaction.....it's a bit crass and tasteless don't you think.

[cdnmatt]

no proof that spanish flu came from america...data from those times is not complete, was first identified in kansas amongst soldiers returning from war zone hand. China virus did originate in wuhan...if u deny that then u r a holocaust denier. Funny that none complained when the mexican swine fever was named...is that because no one cares a fuck about offending mexicans...



You're right, there was no actual tracking back then, hence why it's estimated somewhere between 50 - 100 million died during the Spanish Flu.

Nonetheless, it's widely believed that the Spanish Flu started in a military barracks in Kansas. Same as whether you like it or not, remember H1N1? That started in North America. The majority of avian based airborne viruses start in North America, go do your research, and you'll see it's right.

That's why I get pissed when I see people online blaming China for this. China had nothing to do with it -- there's thousands of viruses around us all the time, and once in a while they will jump to humans. That's what happened here, it's just a thing of nature, and has nothing to do with China, so leave racism out of the conversation.

However, just found this last night, and now China has more to answer for:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3s6kcXi4pA&t=458s

Apparently, according to that Australia news report, once China realized this was going to be a global pandemic back in Decemeber, they went out and contracted all Chinese citizens who own foreign businesses, and asked them to tell their staff to go out to the lcoals stores / malls and buy all the medical equipment available such as masks, gowns, hand sanitizer, etc. Then bring the items back to their office where they were repackaged / re-labeled, and mailed off to China. That's one of the reasons Australia doesn't have medical supplies at the moment, I guess.

[Jellybean]

Having just finished watching the 2011 film, Contagion, starring Marion Cotillard, Matt Damon, Laurence Fishburne, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet and Bryan Cranston, I was surprised how closely the fictional account of a global pandemic mirrors the current, real Covid-19 pandemic. Allowing for dramatic license, the similarities between the storyline and real life were striking.


The plot concerns the spread of a virus transmitted by fomites, attempts by medical researchers and public health officials to identify and contain the disease, the loss of social order in a pandemic.
Source: Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contagion_(2011_film))


https://youtu.be/4sYSyuuLk5g

One issue discussed in the film, which has not yet arisen, is what to do when a vaccine is eventually found. How will it be distributed and who will be first to receive the vaccine?

Should priority be given to key workers – doctors, nurses, paramedics and other health workers? Who next? – Members of governments and senior administrators, law enforcement officers, military personnel? And, what about the rest of us?


In alphabetical order?
A lottery type system, with day and month of birth instead of a lottery number on the ball?
By age?

It’s going to be a monumental task. Hopefully, governments around the world have already given thought to this aspect of the pandemic and have, or are already planning how the vaccine should be administered.

The following image from facebook was mainly directed at the UK, but may well be relevant in other countries. Here in the UK, people are urged to stay at home and:


Only go outside for food, health reasons or work (but only if you cannot work from home)

If you go out, stay 2 metres (6ft) away from other people at all times

Do not meet others, even friends or family.

9850

[Nirish guy]

China realized this was going to be a global pandemic back in Decemeber, they contracted all Chinese citizens who own foreign businesses, and asked them to go buy all the medical equipment available such as masks, gowns, hand sanitize....and get relabelled and mailed off to China.

What, you mean like Trump is doing right now in buying up all and every mask and ventilator the US can find, even if it means opening closed deals and then outbidding governments closed orders with offers of three times the price of the previously agreed contract price, even after their orders were already placed and with Chinese suppliers - you could of course also question the ethics of the Chinese suppliers but their chasing the Dollar ( quite literally) almost goes without needing to be said.

Personally I dont see any scandal here - China needed the PPE before everyone else, they didn't have it and they asked their citizens world wide to do whatever they could to help get PPE back to China fast ! Sounds reasonable enough under the circumstances - albeit bloody annoying that they're now selling it back to us all at three times the price of course, but I'm guessing that they too didn't know how much or how long they'd need it for so where being cautious.

[arsenal]

" China had nothing to do with it "
cndmatt
Brilliant.

No need to worry about priority for the vaccine JB. I've done a list.
Me
Hot Thai/Laos/Cambodian money boys.




Everyone else.

[cdnmatt]

Trump is an idiot, and should be left out of the conversation altogether. It's still going on now, but Trump told 3M (the manufacturers of the N95 masks) not to export any more masks to Canada or Latin America. Then Canada reminded him the pulp to make those maks is actually manufactured here in British Columbia, Canada, so don't be an asshole, and send the masks we ordered. I guess just yesterday Trump rescinded the order to not export masks to Canada, so the shipments should still come through.

Same as about 6 days ago or so Trump was saying he's going to send US military troops to the US border for some unknown reason. Thankfully, there seems to be some folks in the Whitehouse who can talk him out of his delusions, so the US / Canada border will no longer be militarized.

But yes, lots of countries are going to have lots to answer for once this is over, China and the US included. There will also be lots of lessons to be learned from the likes of South Korea, Taiwan, and Germany, and dare I may say, Canada. We never make the world news for anything, but Canada has done a pretty good job too.

I'll stick with my original assertion. Once this is all over, it's Paris Accord times 1000. We're looking to become closer to world peace than we've ever been. It's a long haul, but I think it's inevitable.

[Jellybean]

I received the following email from the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO):



Thailand travel advice

Change made
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has suspended incoming international passenger flights until 11.59 pm on 18 April. (‘Coronavirus’ page)

Time updated
1:39pm, 6 April 2020

Extract from FCO website:


Entry and borders

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has suspended incoming international passenger flights until 11.59 pm on 18 April.

An Emergency Decree entered into force on 26 March 2020, initially until 30 April. As part of this, the Thai authorities have barred all foreign nationals from entering or transiting Thailand except in certain limited circumstances. If you do not meet these criteria you should not try to enter or transit Thailand . . .

Link to FCO website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand/coronavirus

[christianpfc]

A Malaysian friend of Chinese origin once said:
The Chinese eat everything that has four legs, except chairs; and everything that flies, except airplanes.
(Another variant of the joke goes "everything that has it's back pointing to the sky".)

Men, domesticated and wild animals mixed together seems to be a hotbed for new diseases. I read somewhere, HIV is believed to originate from monkeys/apes and transmitted to humans by people in Africa eating them.

[arsenal]

Posted by an acquaintance within the last hour. In actual fact it's almost certainly farmed. They've eaten all the wild ones.

[Jellybean]

Below, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post, one relating to the FCO update I posted earlier at post #465, although it does not give much further information. The other report relates to a dead tourist who concealed his at-risk history :


Incoming flight ban extended to April 18

published : 6 Apr 2020 at 17:58
writer: Post Reporters

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has extended a ban on all commercial flights to Thailand until April 18 to support the country's campaign to contain the coronavirus.

Thailand had banned passenger flights from Saturday to Monday. Hours before the order expired, the aviation regulator issued another announcement extending the ban to April 18 . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1894300/incoming-flight-ban-extended-to-april-18


Dead infected tourist had concealed at-risk history

112 medical staff now in quarantine

published : 6 Apr 2020 at 18:03
writer: Achadtaya Chuenniran

PHUKET: A Hungarian tourist who died of Covid-19 had earlier withheld details of his visits to entertainment areas, which resulted in 112 medical staff being suspended from work and placed in quarantine.

Dr Chalermpong Sukhonthapol, director of Vachira Phuket Hospital, revealed the details at a meeting of provincial officials in charge of combating the disease on Monday . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1894290/dead-infected-tourist-had-concealed-at-risk-history

[sglad]

Posted by an acquaintance within the last hour. In actual fact it's almost certainly farmed. They've eaten all the wild ones.

They drink the "soup" and eat the turtle meat. You know why? For longevity.

Sick fucks.

[sglad]

A Malaysian friend of Chinese origin once said:
The Chinese eat everything that has four legs, except chairs; and everything that flies, except airplanes.
(Another variant of the joke goes "everything that has it's back pointing to the sky".)


How did your friend say it? With pride or matter-of-factly? The mainlanders tend to be proud of it. Really disgusting. As a vegetarian, I find it totally repulsive.

[Marc K]

They drink the "soup" and eat the turtle meat. You know why? For longevity.

Sick fucks.



Why is eating turtle any more repulsive than eating lobster in Maine or crab in Maryland or shrimp in the Gulf? Many animals (crustaceans) have exoskeletons. Here in Hawaii when I was a kid my mother made a great turtle soup which was delicious.

It is true that here the turtle as food disappeared some years ago as the Hawaiian turtle dangerously diminished in numbers. Today here you can go jail for even TOUCHING a turtle.

https://www.khon2.com/local-news/caught-on-camera-investigation-underway-after-man-harasses-endangered-sea-turtle/

[latintopxxx]

I really dont care what people eat...be it snails..frog legs..or horse meat...yes its you garlic eating surrender monkeys Im talking about...as long as its kept and slaughtered in hygienic/appropriate conditions to avoid disease transfer

[gerefan2]

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson was moved into Intensive Care this evening at about 7 pm UK time. He was already in hospital with the Covid19 virus but his condition had deteriorated during the afternoon.
Quite a turn of events.

[dab69]

too bad it wasn't Trump/Pence...

[dinagam]

Chinese food humour...from an Indian head of state.

[christianpfc]

How did your friend say it? With pride or matter-of-factly? The mainlanders tend to be proud of it. Really disgusting. As a vegetarian, I find it totally repulsive.
Matter-of-factly. As a statement, not a judgement.

[Jellybean]

Below, I highlight one report from the Bangkok Post and a selected extract from the worldometer website:


Thailand logs 111 new Covid cases, 3 deaths Wednesday

published : 8 Apr 2020 at 12:19
updated: 8 Apr 2020 at 14:11
writer: Online Reporters

The government on Wednesday reported 111 new local cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), including 42 returnees from Indonesia, raising the total to 2,369. Three more deaths, all of foreigners, took the accumulated toll to 30 . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1895675/thailand-logs-111-new-covid-cases-3-deaths-wednesday

9857

Link to worldometer site: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/#countries

[Jellybean]

And once again, to lighten the mood, I repost images first posted on facebook:

Friends of Dorothy will be surprised to see that she has acquired some queer friends, but will be even more surprised, nay disappointed, to note she broke the rules and [Drum roll] went outside!

9860

When we all know, she should never have left Kansas and stayed at home just like the rest of us! :)

9861

[francois]

Why is eating turtle any more repulsive than eating lobster in Maine or crab in Maryland or shrimp in the Gulf? Many animals (crustaceans) have exoskeletons. Here in Hawaii when I was a kid my mother made a great turtle soup which was delicious.

turtle/"]https://www.khon2.com/local-news/caught-on-camera-investigation-underway-after-man-harasses-endangered-sea-turtle/[/URL]

True, that eating turtle is no more repulsive or tasty than crustaceans however (although more endangered) , for the record a turtle is a reptile, not a crustacean.:devilsh:

[lonelywombat]

From Yupins monthly circular

Yupin Marsh
10:24 PM (16 minutes ago)
to information@yupins.com

Hi,

I am very pleased to tell you that our efforts at supporting the recently unemployed of our local area in Jomtien have been going very well indeed.
We have supplied free meals to the unemployed Thai locals, of which there are many, on two days now.
Last Wednesday we gave away 150 free meals with water, and today after some very serious funding supplied by donors around the world, including Rotary Clubs and Masons and many many individuals, too many to name, most who do not want to be named, we gave away 192 meals in the hours between 4.30 and 5.30pm.
Because the donations to this have been so kind and rewarding we are now able to give away free meals on two days a week instead of one.
so our days of operation will be Wednesdays and Saturdays.
I am so happy that we are able to do this, it is our culture to ‘make merit’ and ‘tamboon’ and we are so happy to do this out of our heart for the poor people who do not have a job now, and cannot eat. I think there are many like that now, here in Thailand;
Our work pattern is mainly to work a day, get paid, and eat.
If we cannot work we cannot eat.
It does not take much thought to realise that some civil disturbance may arise from such a system if work Is not available.
So, I think it is very important that we take care of our neighbours and friends, and just passers by.
Give them hope, and love, and food and drink.

With hard work our country will survive and we will see you again soon
\the sooner the better!!

The many hundred of thousands of Asian students stranded in Australia left with no income for food, let alone rent shocks me.
The poor that try and make a small living in Thailand distresses me equally as much.
This small service from Yupins and many supporters, hopefully may stimulate others.

[Jellybean]

Below, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post and an updated selected extract from the worldometer website:


14,000 Thais still stranded abroad

published : 9 Apr 2020 at 16:32
writer: Online Reporters

The government is telling thousands of Thais stranded abroad to be patient, because the government must control the spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) to protect the majority of the people before they can return home . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1896560/14-000-thais-still-stranded-abroad


Thursday: 54 new coronavirus cases, 2 more deaths

• 9 Apr 2020 at 13:54 1 comments
• WRITER: GARY BOYLE
• ORIGINAL SOURCE/WRITER: ONLINE REPORTERS

The government on Thursday reported 54 new local cases of Covid-19, raising the total to 2,423 spread over 67 provinces, and two new deaths - a Thai man, 82, and a Frenchman, 74 - that increased the toll to 32.

Dr Taweesin Visanuyothin, spokesman for the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration, said the Frenchman had no chronic disease. He fell sick on March 27 with a fever, cough, exhaustion and abdominal pain.

The dead Thai man fell sick on March 25 with a fever of 38.5°C and was treated at a hospital in Samut Prakan province. On March 30 he was exhausted, needed a ventilator and became unconscious. He died on Wednesday. . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/learning/really-easy/1896530/thursday-54-new-coronavirus-cases-2-more-deaths#cxrecs_s

9864

Link to worldometer site: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/#countries

[Nirish guy]

From the Bangkok post article ......The government is telling thousands of Thais stranded abroad to be patient, because the government must control the spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) to protect the majority of the people before they can return home .[/url]

Ha so be PATIENT eh ! Never Mind that you're our citizens and yes we'll get you home but we may need to put you in isolation for 14 days, no, more "you just stay wherever you are, let them look after you (or not), spread whatever you might be carrying over THERE not here and hey when we get a chance we'll maybe think of getting you home "somehow" when this thing dies down a bit. How novel.

[Jellybean]

And once again, to lighten the mood, I repost images first posted on facebook:

One light-hearted:

9865

And to end, two positive images:

9866

9867

[arsenal]

Doing the maths it's going to take about 1082 days to get evetyone back.

Once again there was no mention of the highly esteemed clients of bar boys being given priority passes or golden queue jumping tickets. And not a word from Amnesty about this. Dereliction of duty.

[Nirish guy]

As just seen on Richard Barrows Blog - "Bangkok prohibits the sale of alcohol from 10-20 April 2020" ( apparently the translation is "requests" a ban on the sale of......be interesting to see how the "request" is received ! The list Including Chonburi for a 6am - 6pm closure ? is below. I'm not sure what they're expecting such closures to achieve. I guess being Songkran they just want to keep people from congregating in bars, but as seems that carry outs may still be allowed it's all a bit confusing.

But if I needed a final " thank god I didn't fly there after all ( aside from the obvious)" then this would have been it.
9868

Bangkok 10-20 April
Sakon Nakhon 31 Mar-16 Apr
Chiang Mai 10-20 Apr
Rayong 3-15 Apr
Buriram 2-30 Apr
Mukdahan 6-30 Apr
Suphan Buri 4-30 Apr
Nakhon Pathom 2-30 Apr
Lamphun 1-30 Apr
Chonburi from 6pm-6am
Surin 2-30 Apr

[Jellybean]

Below, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post, an updated selected extract from the worldometer website and one report from Al-Jazeera:


Two more deaths, 45 new cases, total 2,518

Nine people in state quarantine test positive for Covid-19

published : 11 Apr 2020 at 13:39
writer: Online Reporters

Nine people in state quarantine, including Thais returned from abroad, are among the 45 new Covid-19 cases reported on Saturday, bringing the total to 2,518 and fatalities to 35 . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1897775/two-more-deaths-45-new-cases-total-2-518


PM condemns curfew breakers

Says violators 'lack social conscience'

published : 11 Apr 2020 at 06:30
newspaper section: News
writer: Post Reporters

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Friday slammed more than 6,500 curfew violators for lacking a social conscience but insisted he will not impose any tougher restrictions as current measures in dealing with Covid-19 over the past 100 days are proving effective . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1897470/pm-condemns-curfew-breakers

9872

Link to worldometer site: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/#countries

The World Health Organisation reported on January 13 a case in Thailand, the first outside of China, in a woman who had arrived from Wuhan, yet the recent figures show 35 deaths in Thailand, but a significantly higher number of deaths in the United Kingdom of 8,958 (an increase of 1,861 since I last reported the figures two days ago) despite broadly similar population numbers. Anyone any idea why there should be such a disparity?

Below, I have copied an extract showing the comparable population figures produced by World Population Review:
https://worldpopulationreview.com

9873

And I thought the following timeline produced by Al-Jazeera very informative and worth sharing:



Timeline: How the new coronavirus spread

The virus has killed more than 102,000 people and infected at least 1.69 million worldwide.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a pandemic over a new coronavirus which causes an illness known as COVID-19 that has spread to nearly every country.

The disease has killed more than 102,000 people and infected more than 1.69 million, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University . . .

For the full report see: https://www-aljazeera-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/2020/01/timeline-china-coronavirus-spread-200126061554884.html?amp_js_v=a3&_gsa=1&usqp=mq331AQFKAGwASA%3D#aoh=15865566202339&csi=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&_tf=From%20%251%24s&share=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aljazeera.com%2Fnews%2F202 0%2F01%2Ftimeline-china-coronavirus-spread-200126061554884.html

[Jellybean]

And today I repost the following video, which is doing the rounds on facebook, it was filmed by an angry nurse showing a group of cyclists sitting in a park drinking and flouting the UK social distance rules:


https://youtu.be/mnWnvzmKsuI

[gerefan2]

The World Health Organisation reported on January 13 a case in Thailand, the first outside of China, in a woman who had arrived from Wuhan, yet the recent figures show 35 deaths in Thailand, but a significantly higher number of deaths in the United Kingdom of 8,958 (an increase of 1,861 since I last reported the figures two days ago) despite broadly similar population numbers. Anyone any idea why there should be such a disparity?

Below, I have copied an extract showing the comparable population figures produced by World Population Review:
https://worldpopulationreview.com

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And I thought the following timeline produced by Al-Jazeera very informative and worth sharing:



For the full report see: https://www-aljazeera-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/2020/01/timeline-china-coronavirus-spread-200126061554884.html?amp_js_v=a3&_gsa=1&usqp=mq331AQFKAGwASA%3D#aoh=15865566202339&csi=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&_tf=From%20%251%24s&share=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aljazeera.com%2Fnews%2F202 0%2F01%2Ftimeline-china-coronavirus-spread-200126061554884.html

Climate. Hot in Thailand. Also hot in Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia where NO deaths have been reported.

Regarding Germany and the UK. Let me give you an example.
My friend was taken sick last year and his wife took him to A@E in the London area. They looked at him and sent him home with some tablets.
His wife is German and they returned to Germany the following week where he felt poorly again. This time she took him to a German hospital where, within half an hour, he was diagnosed as having had a Stroke AND a heart attack. He stayed in and made a good recovery. He would probably have died in the UK.

So back to Corona and why the difference between UK figures and German figures. German Efficiency ...just look at their testing figures.

[Oliver2]

For many years we've had governments that didn't really care for the NHS....first of all, it was the deranged Blair and his privatisation plans for schools and the NHS and then it was the Conservatives, whose senior figures would never been seen dead in a NHS facility. Apart from for photo opportunities, of course. Any UK citizen will tell you how underfunding has adversely affected our health....try getting a doctor's appointment.

The NHS was one of the great achievements of our parents after the war and the envy of the world.. And it only became a reality due to small number of determined individuals fighting an entrenched and complacent establishment. Not to mention the arrival of West Indian nurses.

Then Blair's Blue Labour arrived and, along with its attempt to re -enact the Crusades of the Middle Ages, stabbed the NHS in its back. It has kept going due to the commitment of its staff, particularly its "immigrant" workers, at all levels. Who, by the way, are dying of the virus at a faster rate than their white colleagues. I wonder why.

[goji]

The NHS was one of the great achievements of our parents after the war and the envy of the world.
Do you have any evidence to support the claim that the NHS is or was the envy of the world ? AFAIK, this is just Labour party propaganda, without any evidence to back it up.

I for one wouldn't presume the rest of the world envy the NHS, without checking for evidence of that envy.

Personally, once this Covid outbreak is over, I think we should firstly pay a nice flat rate bonus to NHS front line staff.

Then, conduct a benchmarking exercise into other healthcare systems, to determine what structure is getting the best results.
Obviously the German system, with private hospitals, some choice of healthcare insurance provider, gives the consumer more choice and better results at present. So that's one we should look at.
Singapore also provides healthcare cover for all, at a reasonable price:GDP ratio, so that's another good one to look at.
We should probably check the USA system for what NOT to do, since they have by far the highest ratio of healthcare spending to GDP, with a lower life expectancy than many developed countries.

I certainly don't buy the Labour party propaganda and assume a centrally controlled state healthcare system, with no consumer choice is optimum. Such as structure has failed all over the world and there is no reason to assume UK healthcare is an exception. We get less innovation, less competition & less flexibility.

My local GP persistently turns up 15~20 minutes late for the first appointments of the day, despite having a 500 hp car. If we had proper choice, the customers would take their business elsewhere and management would be forced to act and fix this. As it's a state monopoly, they don't give a ****.

[Moggy]

For many years we've had governments that didn't really care for the NHS....first of all, it was the deranged Blair and his privatisation plans for schools and the NHS and then it was the Conservatives, whose senior figures would never been seen dead in a NHS facility. Apart from for photo opportunities, of course. Any UK citizen will tell you how underfunding has adversely affected our health....try getting a doctor's appointment.

The NHS was one of the great achievements of our parents after the war and the envy of the world.. And it only became a reality due to small number of determined individuals fighting an entrenched and complacent establishment. Not to mention the arrival of West Indian nurses.

Then Blair's Blue Labour arrived and, along with its attempt to re -enact the Crusades of the Middle Ages, stabbed the NHS in its back. It has kept going due to the commitment of its staff, particularly its "immigrant" workers, at all levels. Who, by the way, are dying of the virus at a faster rate than their white colleagues. I wonder why.
you are so correct
But now according to the Tory Government Doctors and Nurses are wonderful people after subjecting them for nearly 10 years with austerity and letting the Banks give their Directors massive bonuses after they caused the recession.

[Jellybean]

Below, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post, an updated selected extract from the worldometer website, a YouTube video and an article from The Guardian:


Coronavirus tames Songkran celebration

published : 13 Apr 2020 at 15:32
writer: Post Reporters

Thais celebrated the Lunar New Year in an unusually subdued way as the coronavirus kept them in their homes, without the customary boisterous water splashing and trips upcountry for family reunions . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1898900/coronavirus-tames-songkran-celebration



Thailand logs 28 new coronavirus cases, 2 deaths Monday

published : 13 Apr 2020 at 12:37
updated: 13 Apr 2020 at 15:10
writer: Agencies and online reporters

Thailand reported 28 new coronavirus infections on Monday, for a total of 2,579 cases, a health official said. There were 2 more deaths, taking the nation's toll to 40 . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1898880/thailand-logs-28-new-coronavirus-cases-2-deaths-monday

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Link to worldometer site: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/#countries

And below I include a YouTube video showing what appears to be yet another example of heavy handed policing in the UK to enforce the lockdown rules and followed by an article from The Guardian on the same subject:


https://youtu.be/G0u5wvR33YM


UK lockdown: police apologise after man threatened with pepper spray

The incident in Fallowfield, Manchester, was filmed by neighbours

Mattha Busby
@matthabusby
Sat 11 Apr 2020 17.13 BST Last modified on Sun 12 Apr 2020 15.03 BST

Greater Manchester police have apologised after a man who said he was delivering food to vulnerable family members was arrested and threatened with pepper spray . . .

For the full report see: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2020/apr/11/uk-lockdown-police-apologise-after-man-threatened-with-pepper-spray

[Jellybean]

The following photos show us views of Suvarnabhumi Airport as many of us probably haven’t seen it before as cleaners carry out a deep clean sanitizing regime of the airport. They were posted on facebook by a Thai friend and I understand they were taken from the airport website:

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[Jellybean]

Are the following two images, shared on facebook by one of my Canadian cousins, showing the lengths a drive thru fast food outlet in Ontario is taking to avoid its staff contracting Covid-19 really likely to happen “only in Canada”?

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And once again, to lighten the mood, I repost an image first posted on facebook:

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And one last image to end on a positive note:

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[Jellybean]

Below is an article from Pattaya One on Songkran followed by an article from The Pattaya News on proactive testing for Covid-19 :


Pattaya police step up ‘No Songkran’ enforcement on Thai New Year
by Mark Kelly April 13, 2020

Pattaya police step up ‘No Songkran’ enforcement on Thai New Year

Even though the calendar says it’s the Thai New Year, Pattaya police are out in force to remind folks that, this year, there is no Songkran . . .

For the full report see: https://pattayaone.news/pattaya-police-step-up-no-songkran-enforcement-on-thai-new-year/

And from The Pattaya News . . .


Daily proactive testing for Covid-19 continues in Pattaya and at the Grand Bella Hotel of high risk groups
By Adam Judd Monday, 13 April 2020, 15:23

As previously announced by The Pattaya News and on the Covid-19 Pattaya response Facebook page, Pattaya has begun carrying out roughly two hundred proactive Covid-19 coronavirus tests a day, using a “lamp test” which requires only one test and gives results in 24 hours, on high risk groups in the area at the Grand Bella Hotel. The goal from the Ministry of Public Health currently is to conduct 2,000 random proactive tests on high risk groups in Pattaya to determine if the area has an underlying problem with Covid-19, especially in asymptomatic cases . . .

For the full report see: https://thepattayanews.com/2020/04/13/daily-proactive-testing-for-covid-19-continues-in-pattaya-and-at-the-grand-bella-hotel-of-high-risk-groups/


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[Jellybean]

Oh dear, not so good news coming out of South Korea, as reported by various news agencies and newspapers. I quote just one from Al Jazeera:



South Korea: More recovered coronavirus patients test positive

At least 116 people cleared of the virus have tested positive again, raising questions for authorities.

At least 116 people cleared of the coronavirus have tested positive again in South Korea, raising questions for health authorities trying to prevent a second wave of infections.

The number of such relapse cases more than doubled from 51 reported last week, even as officials suggested they would soon look at easing strict recommendations aimed at preventing new outbreaks . . .

For the full report see: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/04/200413110301074.html

[Jellybean]

Below, I highlight two reports from the Bangkok Post and an updated selected extract from the worldometer website:


Pattaya mayor poised to impose stricter lockdown

published : 15 Apr 2020 at 07:00
newspaper section: News
writer: Post Reporters

Pattaya will enforce a ramped-up coronavirus lockdown tomorrow with more screening checkpoints being set up in this resort city in Chon Buri.

Pattaya mayor Sonthaya Khunpluem said the number of checkpoints has been increased from five to eight along Sukhumvit Road leading to the city to screen vehicles and people entering.

Non-residents or people not working in Pattaya will be barred entry to the city until the situation returns to normal . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1899760/pattaya-mayor-poised-to-impose-stricter-lockdown#cxrecs_s


30 new Covid-19 cases, 2 more deaths

published : 15 Apr 2020 at 13:39
updated: 15 Apr 2020 at 15:51
writer: Online Reporters

The government on Wednesday reported 30 new local cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), lifting the total to 2,643 over 68 provinces, and two new deaths, increasing the toll to 43 . . .

For the full report see: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1900405/30-new-covid-19-cases-2-more-deaths

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https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/#countries

[Jellybean]

And once again, to lighten the mood, I repost images first posted on facebook:

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[arsenal]

https://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-no-more-business-asusual-with-china-after-covid-19-crisis-warns-dominic-raab-11974398

[arsenal]

https://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-uk-investigates-whether-covid-19-started-in-chinese-lab-researching-diseases-in-bats-11974420