Nakhon Ratchasima Health Office Tightens 4 COVID-19 Prevention Measures as Cases Surge in Rainy Season

The Nakhon Ratchasima Health Office revealed that COVID-19 cases have sharply increased during the rainy season, peaking in August with 807 cumulative cases in the province. However, overall numbers remain below the 5-year average. The office has ordered the urgent enforcement of four measures to protect vulnerable groups.

On 28 August 2026, the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Public Health Office held a press conference on the COVID-19 situation and control measures following a clear upward trend in infections in the province. They emphasized that the health system remains under control with sufficient medical supplies and hospital beds, and ordered all areas to immediately intensify proactive measures.

Dr. Wichan Kitseen, Provincial Public Health Doctor of Nakhon Ratchasima, stated that from 1 January to 25 August 2026, the province recorded 1,216 cumulative cases with 3 deaths. The situation began to accelerate during the rainy season from February, with 274 cases in July and peaking at 807 in August, accounting for 66.3% of this year's total cases. However, compared to historical data, the overall cumulative cases remain below the 5-year median.

Epidemiological data analysis shows Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima district with the highest cases at 631, exceeding half of the province's total, followed by Pak Chong with 89 cases and Chum Phuang with 48 cases.

The highest-risk occupational group is laborers and wage workers, comprising 26.5%, followed by students at 10.6%. Regarding reports of high death rates in Phra Thong Kham, Kham Thale So, and Pak Chong districts, the health office clarified this is a statistical effect from small patient numbers—for example, Phra Thong Kham had 3 cases with 1 death—and is not due to more severe virus mutations.

In response to the outbreak, the Nakhon Ratchasima provincial communicable disease committee has approved four key measures for immediate implementation by relevant agencies, including:

• Accelerated proactive screening in densely populated economic zones and crowded communities, especially in Mueang and Pak Chong districts.
• Coordination with schools, factories, and workplaces to strictly screen workers and students, with immediate isolation for those who are ill.
• Assigning community health volunteers and sub-district health centers to closely monitor individuals aged 70 and above, referring infected cases promptly to hospitals to reduce mortality rates.
• Enhancing infection prevention measures among healthcare personnel within medical facilities.

The Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Public Health Office also requests the public to strictly follow personal hygiene measures by wearing masks in crowded areas, frequently washing hands, and immediately performing ATK testing if cold-like symptoms appear to protect themselves and their families.