In Thailand, wearing face masks is now optional
Photo by Adam Nieścioruk on Unsplash
According to an announcement published in the Royal Gazette yesterday, the wearing of face masks outside and in public places is no longer necessary as of Thursday, June 23, and people are free to choose whether or not to wear one.
The calm comes as the COVID-19 situation has improved, with the number of new infections, serious cases, and fatalities progressively declining in recent weeks, allowing people to resume a normal life.
Although wearing masks is voluntary, the Ministry of Public Health recommends that people consider the benefits of doing so, which can reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 or other respiratory diseases when they are in a crowded environment, where air circulation is poor, or where social distancing is impossible.
The Ministry of Public Health recommends that adults over the age of 60, pregnant women, and those with underlying conditions wear a face mask while they are among other people to limit the risk of infection or infecting others if they are infected.
Meanwhile, as the country transitions to the post-pandemic period, the Public Health Ministry has been directed to undertake a campaign to educate people on how to behave in order to keep safe.
Although the wearing of face masks outside was established in 2020, it became mandatory in April 2021, when the country experienced a new increase in COVID-19 infections.
COVID- Thailand
The number of cases and fatalities has decreased in recent months, prompting relaxation of restrictions like as the recent reopening of pubs and clubs and the abolition of the “Thailand Pass” required for overseas arrivals on July 1.
See the latest COVID 19 Entry rules for Thailand Click here
For international visitors wishing to visit Thailand during this period, please check https://www.tatnews.org/thailand-reopening/ for the most up-to-date admission criteria.