Thailand’s Public Health Ministry today announced the first case of New Coronavirus Pneumonia in the country, but assured the public that there is no wider outbreak of the virus.

Public Health Minister Anuthin Charnvirakul told the media today (Monday) that the case was detected at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on January 8^th in a 61-year old female Chinese tourist as she arrived.

The elderly lady was immediately isolated and sent to the Bamratnaradoon Institute for observation, where it was confirmed on Sunday that she was infected with New Coronavirus Pneumonia, the first case diagnosed outside China.

Besides that patient, who is still undergoing treatment, MR Anutin said the 12 other tourists travelling with her from China were found to have a fever and respiratory problems and were quarantined for treatment, but they were cleared of coronavirus and are expected to be discharged in the next few days.