The Department of Disease Control updated that COVID-19 cases in Thailand continue to be detected. Since the beginning of the year, there have been 99,691 cumulative cases. They advise observing symptoms and following the principle of 'stay home when sick, minimize close contact' to help prevent transmission of the virus.
On 1 September 2026, Dr. Jurai Wongsawat and Dr. Weerawat Manosuthi, senior medical spokespeople for the Department of Disease Control, stated in a press conference that COVID-19 cases in Thailand continue steadily, following the seasonal pattern typical of respiratory infections.
According to data from the Digital Disease Surveillance system (DDS) between 1 January and 31 August 2026, there were 99,691 cumulative COVID-19 cases and 15 deaths, a fatality rate of 0.02%. Cases were found across all age groups, with the highest incidence in children aged 0–4 years, followed by adults aged 30–39 and 20–29 years respectively. Meanwhile, other respiratory illnesses such as influenza and RSV are also on the rise, highlighting the importance of general respiratory infection prevention.
Regarding the current COVID-19 variants, surveillance shows the predominant strain in Thailand is Omicron subvariant NB.1.8.1, accounting for 524 cases (50.14%), detected continuously since mid-2025. There is no evidence that this variant causes more severe disease.
Surveillance data indicate most patients exhibit symptoms similar to the common cold. Thus, the presence of subvariants or viral mutations does not necessarily mean increased disease severity. The public is advised not to worry about variant names but to follow trustworthy public health information.
Current COVID-19 symptoms mainly affect the respiratory system, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue—similar to common respiratory infections. Those who feel unwell should rest adequately, monitor their symptoms, and avoid close contact with others, especially the elderly, young children (particularly those under one year old, who have the highest illness rate), people with chronic diseases, or immunocompromised individuals. Avoid crowded places; if going out or living with others, wear masks and wash hands frequently. If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 days, patients should promptly seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The Department of Disease Control spokesperson added that although most current COVID-19 cases are mild, the 608 group—people aged 60 and above, pregnant women over 12 weeks gestation, and individuals with seven chronic underlying diseases (chronic respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney failure, stroke, obesity, cancer, diabetes)—remain vulnerable to severe illness. These high-risk groups should avoid crowded or poorly ventilated areas and strictly follow DMH measures.
D (Distancing): Maintain physical distance from others to reduce infection risk.
M (Mask Wearing): Properly wear surgical or cloth masks when in public places.
H (Hands Washing): Frequently wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based gel, a fundamental measure to prevent respiratory infections.
The Department of Disease Control urges the public to live normally without panic over variant changes but to focus on proper self-protection, especially during weather transitions when respiratory diseases spread more easily.
Follow the principle 'stay home when sick, minimize close contact.' If ill, rest and reduce contact with others, wear a mask when symptomatic or in crowded places, and maintain good health. Seek immediate medical care if severe symptoms develop, such as difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, confusion, or worsening condition. For more information, contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422.