Thailand is experiencing a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, with 71,067 infections and 19 deaths reported between January 1 and May 14, 2025. This uptick follows the Songkran holiday period, during which case numbers steadily increased. Two significant cluster outbreaks have been identified, contributing to the rise in cases.
Health authorities attribute the spike to the emergence of the XEC variant, a recombinant strain of Omicron first identified in Germany in June 2024. This variant is a hybrid of two subvariants: KS.1.1 (FLiRT) and KP.3.3 (FLuQE), and carries multiple mutations that enable faster transmission. XEC has been detected in at least 15 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, and spreads 84–110% faster than other Omicron subvariants.
Symptoms of XEC include:
- Fever, cough, sore throat
- Fatigue, headache, body aches
- Nasal congestion, runny nose
- Loss of smell or taste
- Appetite loss, diarrhea, vomiting nationthailand
Preventive measures recommended by health authorities:
- Get vaccinated and receive booster shots
- Wear masks in crowded areas
- Wash hands frequently
- Maintain physical distancing
- Isolate if symptoms appear
Authorities urge the public to remain cautious, monitor symptoms, and adhere to preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus. nationthailand
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