Fewer COVID-19 tests may result in fewer infections reported during Songkran - DDC

23 Sept 06:12 Key points summarised by AI

The reported decrease in daily COVID-19 infections during the Songkran holidays is deceptive, primarily due to a significant reduction in RT-PCR and rapid antigen tests conducted.
Daily testing dropped from approximately 100,000 tests before Songkran to about 80,000 tests during the holiday, leading to fewer reported cases compared to the previous week.
A clearer and more accurate picture of the infection trend is anticipated in the coming week as testing activities are expected to increase.
An observed rise in COVID-19 deaths among patients with kidney disease is hypothesized to be linked to fewer individuals seeking dialysis, possibly due to vaccination or testing requirements.
Severe cases of Omicron infections are noted to primarily affect individuals with pre-existing underlying diseases, who often present as critically ill upon hospital admission.

Thailand News in Brief