COVID 19 - What’s going on in Thailand?

This article was created by the IVL Property team located on the island of Koh Samui, Thailand and as of the time of publication on March 23 is found to be accurate and based on credible sources.

In these unprecedented times and with the prevalence of false information being spread on social media IVL Property advises against listening to rumours and speculation.

We will try to add updates and fresh content as it becomes available in hopes of answering your questions and protecting your health and making travel as easy as possible.

Thailand COVID-19 - entry restrictions, bans and visas

As of March 23 Thailand hasn’t closed the borders though rules are in place which make entry almost impossible such as requiring a medical certificate issued not less than 72 hours before entry showing the no trace of COVID-19. This certificate is difficult to get in some countries and unavailable in others, making entry to Thailand impossible

Another factor restricting travel to Thailand is visitors needing proof of at least $100,000 of insurance specifically covering COVID-19.

Information for visitors already in Thailand

The ability to extend visas for people already in the country who can not travel home is now available without a letter from a consulate for the following countries:

1. Italy
2. Iran
3. Spain
4. Germany
5. South Korea
6. France
7. America
8. Switzerland
9. The UK
10. Hong Kong
11. Macau

Other countries may issue such a letter and should be contacted directly as these rules are constantly changing as new information becomes available and countries are getting locked down.

Coronavirus in Thailand - trackers

These resources compile empirical data on actual cases around the world and specifically in Thailand including those infected with COVID -19 and dispels rumours.

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

World tracker https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html

Thailand Tracker (also has app) https://covidtracker.5lab.co/

COVID-19 in Thailand - what to do if I have symptoms?

First, check if you have any of the symptoms noted in the table below. If you are in a risk group or have any of the symptoms it is recommended that you get tested for COVOID-19.

Coronavirus in Thailand - where to make test

Here is a list of hospitals currently offering COVOID-19 testing.

In Bangkok

For residents and visitors to Koh Samui here are options for COVOID-19 testing.

• Private Bangkok Hospital - 25 000
• Public Koh Samui Hospital - 15 000

COVID-19 insurance available in Thailand

Mostly banks in Thailand offer COVID-19 insurance with the price depending on the bank. We suggest you contact your bank directly to get the most up to date information. As of today Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) in cooperation with DEVES insurance has stopped providing insurance due to an overload in requests.

Basic COVID-19 advice

• stay home if possible as long as you can
• wash your hands for at least 20 seconds regularly
• use sanitizer
• avoid touching your face
• change your mask every 3 hours
• keep a safe distance of at least two metres away from people
• make your immune system stronger by eating and sleeping well
• avoid public places

COVID-19 on Koh Samui

 

As of the time of publication Koh Samui has zero cases of COVID-19. To protect residents and tourists alike the local government has closed all schools, nurseries, public places, bars, massage shops and public events except restaurants and small shops. As of now convenience stores and supermarkets are open.

Disinsection in Koh Samui 22 March - click the link for more information

COVID-19 in Bangkok

The Bangkok Governor has ordered the closure of the following from Sunday March 22 to Sunday April 12

• Shopping malls
• Restaurants except for takeaway/delivery
• Spas and salons
• Non-food markets
• Swimming pools
• Amusement centers
• Internet cafes

During the Bangkok Shutdown the following will remain open.

• Supermarkets
• Convenience stores
• Pharmacies
• Fresh food markets

BREAKING NEWS: The Bangkok Governor has ordered the closure of all malls and markets. Supermarkets and stalls selling food and fresh produce are allowed to stay open as well as restaurants that do takeaways. Standby for a full list of closures.

‪ The closure across Bangkok starts on Sunday 22nd March and continues for 22 days until 12th April. Supermarkets in shopping malls and stalls selling fresh produce & food in markets are allowed to remain open. Restaurants have to switch to takeaway only.

Source:

https://www.springnews.co.th/news/634353

https://www.thaienquirer.com/9849/thailand-announces-89-new-coronavirus-cases-the-largest-single-day-rise-since-the-outbreak-began/

Safety provinces in Thailand during Pandemia by Ministry of Public Health

Useful links to be informed about the situation with COVID-19 in Thailand and Koh Samui

Ministry of Public Health https://ddc.moph.go.th/viralpneumonia/eng/index.php

Bangkok Post https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand

Koh Samui Public Health Emergency Operation Center https://www.facebook.com/Samui2EOC

---

Here is an updated collection of useful information regarding COVID-19 policies affecting Thailand prepared by the IVL Property team on Koh Samui. Read about the most recent news that affects you directly as we move towards life in a post pandemic world. We can’t wait to invite you back to Koh Samui.