Three of the first 38 Thais evacuated from Ukraine to Bangkok this morning (Wednesday) have tested positive for COVID-19. On arrival, all 38 were immediately taken to Bamrasnaradura Infectious Diseases Institute for temporary isolation.

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said today that the three infected have not developed any symptoms yet and are now being taken care of in the Institute’s quarantine centre, in accordance with treatment protocol.

For the rest, he said that they will also be placed in the institute’s quarantine centre under observation, in accordance with the guidelines, which means that they will be subject to rapid antigen tests on the fifth day of their isolation and, if their test results are negative, they will be able leave for home on the seventh day, or elect to stay for another three days for observation.

Those who choose to return home will be given rapid antigen test kits for self-administration, while provincial health and labour officials have been instructed to follow up on their conditions for a while, said the minister.

He assured that the government will take care of all the medical expenses incurred by the returnees, while the Labour Ministry will provide financial support, from a fund intended to help Thais working overseas who are evacuated to escape war.

The minister said that most of the Thais working in Ukraine have received two doses of vaccines and the Public Health Ministry would like to give them a third dose before releasing them home.

Anutin, accompanied by Public Health Permanent Secretary Dr. Kiattibhoom Vongrachit and Director-General of the Disease Control Department Dr. Opart Karnkawinpong went to Bamrasnaradura Infectious Diseases Institute to visit the 38 Thai evacuees.