COVID-19 infections in Thailand last week increased 12.8%, compared to a week earlier, and it is anticipated that the number of patients requiring hospitalisation is likely to increase in the next 2-4 weeks, according to Dr. Tares Krassanairawiwong, director-general of the Disease Control Department.

Describing the rising number of infections as just a “small wave”, he said that the situation was not unexpected, with the fatality rate remaining stable despite the increase in more serious cases, after Thailand designated COVID-19 as a “communicable disease under watch” on October 1st.

He disclosed that increased hospitalisations were reported in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces, as well as in tourist provinces in eastern and southern regions, adding that more than half of the cases reported between November 6th and 12th are not vaccinated or not fully vaccinated, leaving them vulnerable.

Meanwhile Dr. Sophon Iamsirithavorn, the department’s deputy director-general, said that they attach importance to the so-called “608” group, which includes those aged over 60 and those suffering from underlying diseases, by treating them with Long Acting Antibody (LAAB) after they develop symptoms and test positive for COVID-19.

He advised elderly people who are not fully vaccinated to try to avoid going out and their younger relatives and family members to avoid visiting night entertainment venues.

He offered an assurance that there is enough LAAB to cope with an increase in infections, especially for those who are immunocompromised, such as patients who have had an organ transplant or who suffer from chronic kidney disease.