Thailand will reopen some businesses, such as restaurants, markets, barbershops, and sports clubs, now that it sees a decreasing number of daily new coronavirus cases, officials say.
Pongsakorn Kwanmuang, spokesperson for Bangkok’s governor, said on Wednesday that public parks, golf courses, and hair salons for dogs will also reopen in Bangkok and other provinces within the next few days.
Thailand has been under a state of emergency since March 26. That is set to last until at least May 31.
Since issuing the order, it has seen the number of daily new coronavirus cases drop. However, most shops and meeting places have been ordered to close and there has been a daily curfew from 10 pm to 4 am.
The government reported fewer than 10 coronavirus cases for the third consecutive day this week, with nine new cases on Wednesday. It reported more than 100 new cases most days last month.
Pongsakorn said new social-distancing and virus prevention measures will be imposed in places that reopen.
Restaurants will have to take customers’ temperatures and make space between seats.
Barbershops – for both people and pets – will be reservation-only.
Sports clubs will be allowed to open areas for non-contact sports such as running, badminton, tennis, and golf. Football and basketball is still prohibited.
Shopping malls will remain closed.
Officials said earlier this week that any measures that are eased could also be reinstated if there are signs of another outbreak.
Overall, Thailand has reported 2,947 coronavirus cases, with 54 deaths.
-DPA
