Thailand-
The following is our weekly feature in which we ask our readers a news topical question and get their insight and opinions. We then share their feedback a week later and pick a variety of diverse and interesting responses.
This week, we want to ask our readers the following question, inspired by intense discussions on our social media over the past few days as “Omicron” begins to impact the Pattaya area and the Chonburi governor introduced THIS new order requiring rapid Covid-19 tests to enter “restaurants” that sell alcoholic beverages.
What concerns you more in Thailand, getting Covid-19 or possible forced hospital/hotel quarantine?
The context behind this question:
One of our most popular questions is WHAT HAPPENS IF I TEST POSITIVE AND IT IS OFFICIALLY REPORTED, for example at a Covid-19 screening point to enter, say, Treetown market. Although the answer can vary based on some factors, in general, you will be taken via ambulance to a hospital or medical center, tested again, and if positive will be assessed based on multiple factors like health, age, risk status, pre-existing conditions, vaccination status, symptoms, insurance, etc. At that point, you will generally be sent to either a hospital, hospitel (a quarantine center/hotel), isolation center, field hospital, or if you are VERY lucky given self-isolation. (Rare due to Omicron in Chonburi.) This will be, if you are not a Thai national, at your or your insurance’s expense. The number of days can also vary based on some factors, but is usually around 10-14.
This has driven a lot of concern online, so we want to know…are you more afraid of catching Covid or of the government’s policies?
We look forward to hearing from you! Tell us on our social media channels, in the comments below, or if you prefer your comment to be private mail us at Pattayanewseditor@gmail.com. We will publish the results and select a variety of diverse responses early next week, as always!
