Health authorities have moved to reassure the public following the discovery of a coronavirus strain in local bats, emphasising that the finding is part of routine and academic wildlife surveillance and poses a low risk to human health.
Dr. Montien Kanasawadse, director general of the Department of Disease Control (DDC), said today that researchers had identified a virus closely related to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, in horseshoe bats in a cave in Chachoengsao province.
While the discovery has drawn academic interest, Dr. Montien stressed that it was a result of the country’s proactive ‘One Health’ surveillance system, which monitors the intersection of human, animal and environmental health.
"This discovery reflects Thailand's robust capacity for early detection of emerging diseases," Dr. Montien said, adding, "Most importantly, our data shows no human infections have occurred and the virus’s ability to cause disease or spread is significantly lower than that of COVID-19."
He added that existing COVID-19 vaccines remain effective in preventing severe illness, further lowering the risk of a major outbreak.
Echoing these sentiments, DDC Deputy Director General Dr. Direk Khampan urged the public to remain calm but vigilant. He advised against direct contact with wildlife, particularly bats and their droppings.
"People should avoid entering damp areas or caves where bat secretions may be present. Standard hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, eating cooked food and wearing masks or gloves in high-risk areas, remain our best defense," Dr. Direk said.
Health officials advise anyone experiencing a fever, cough or breathing difficulties after visiting bat-populated areas to seek medical attention immediately.
According to the DDC, no related human infections have been detected in Thailand to date and the risk to the general public remains low. Therefore, there is no need for panic.
People are, however, advised to monitor updates from public health authorities closely.
For more information, please contact the DDC hotline on 1422.
