Thailand hits record for new COVID-19 cases

Thailand ordered new coronavirus restrictions on Monday after the country reported a new daily high of 745 cases.

In its report, The New York Times notes that Thailand has been regarded as one of the most successful countries when it comes to containing the coronavirus.

Thailand’s government declared 28 of its 73 provinces “red zones,” reports the Times, giving governors the authority to enact restrictions. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha refrained from calling the new measure a lockdown while still asking people to stay home if possible.

“This is up to everyone,” Prayuth said to reporters. “If we don’t want to get infected, just stay home for 14 to 15 days.”

Thailand ordered a new round of restrictions last week in light of the new surge of cases that closed down hostess bars, gambling venues and massage parlors beginning on Tuesday.

“We don’t want to lock down the entire country because we know what the problems are,” added the prime minister. “Therefore, can you all lock down yourselves?”

The Times reports that although restaurants and bars have been allowed to remain open, alcohol sales have been prohibited, a common coronavirus restriction in many countries.

The latest outbreak is believed to have originated from a seafood market in the eastern province of Samut Sakhon. The outbreak made its way through migrant workers before quickly spreading throughout the rest of Thailand’s population, reports the Times.

According to the World Health Organization, Thailand has reported 8,439 cases and 65 deaths so far.