Are Pfizer shots the cure for Thailand’s COVID crisis?

13 Sept 05:07 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand faces a severe COVID-19 crisis, driving high demand for Pfizer-BioNTech due to its 95% efficacy (though lower against Delta, still strong against severe illness) and innovative mRNA technology, despite initial unavailability.
Initially reliant on Sinovac and AstraZeneca, Thailand's government shifted to acquire Pfizer following public pressure, concerns over Sinovac's rapidly waning immunity, and a surge in Delta variant cases.
Thailand secured 20 million Pfizer doses, primarily for 12-18 year olds, and 1.5 million donated U.S. doses will serve as booster shots for healthcare workers, many of whom received Sinovac and experienced breakthrough infections.
Research indicates Sinovac's antibody levels drop significantly, prompting urgent demands for mRNA boosters for medics; Pfizer itself is seeking authorization for a booster dose as its two-dose efficacy against variants like Delta shows some decline.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Yesterday 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.