The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is calling on people to start adhering to Covid-19 preventive measures because infections have surged to more than 700 a day after Songkran.

Wantanee Wattana, BMA deputy permanent secretary, said on Sunday that the number of Covid cases in Bangkok has risen from about 400 daily to 700 after Songkran.

She reckons the number of Covid patients is possibly higher because not everybody would have reported their infection.

“The daily number in Bangkok can be as high as about 1,000 people,” she said.

However, she asked people not to panic as most Covid patients have been infected by the old strains. Only a few people have picked up the new strain, she added.

“People should go back to employing preventive measures like wearing a facemask, maintaining distance from others and washing hands regularly,” she said.

As for those who are at high risk, they should adhere to “universal prevention” measures such as spending as little time outdoors as possible, maintaining a distance of at least one to two metres from others, wearing facemasks with two layers, washing hands regularly and avoiding touching their face.

People most vulnerable to Covid-19 are those aged 60 and above as well as those with chronic conditions like heart or lung disease, diabetes or conditions that affect their immune system.

“People at high risk should clean their homes regularly, especially frequently touched surfaces,” she said. “They should also keep their belongings separate from others and consume hot, cooked food.”

She added that the high-risk group should also take rapid antigen tests immediately if they develop any symptoms.

“They should rush to the doctor if symptoms worsen,” she added.

Wantanee also reminded people to ensure they are up to date with their Covid-19 jabs, adding that the BMA is providing free shots, with a choice of vaccines such as Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca.

The long-acting antibody (LAAB) treatment is also available for people with impaired immunity, kidney problems, Aids or those who take immunosuppression drugs, she said.

“People who have not received a booster shot for the past four to six months are eligible for a free Covid-19 jab at 69 public health service centres across Bangkok every Friday afternoon,” Wantanee said.

People can make a reservation by calling BMA’s public health service centres or booking via the QueQ application.

Free Covid-19 jabs are also available at 11 hospitals under BMA’s jurisdiction, as well as Vajira Hospital.

Wantanee said patients who develop mild symptoms should receive initial treatment, take lots of rest and isolate themselves from others for five to seven days.

“They should undergo Covid tests before returning to work,” she said.

She also confirmed that BMA has plenty of medicines and hospital beds to deal with an outbreak.

“People can contact public health service centres and BMA hospitals for advice,” she added.