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Thai health authorities probe Aussies’ claim of “two years in hell” after eating Pad Thai in Thailand in 2017

23 Sept 06:12 Key points summarised by AI

Australian couple, Stacey Barnes and Ryan Prigg, claim they endured "two years of hell" after contracting a parasite from Pad Thai during their 2017 Thailand vacation.
Doctors diagnosed the couple with *dientamoeba fragilis*, a single-celled parasite, which they believe originated from a food court Pad Thai dish, causing severe fatigue and illness.
Thailand's Disease Control Department is investigating the claim but disputes the Pad Thai as the source, citing robust food safety systems and the unlikelihood of the parasite surviving frying.
The couple's traumatic experience has led them to vow never to return to Thailand, despite the authorities' counter-arguments regarding food safety and the parasite's origin.

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.