Thailand, one of Asia’s most popular tourist destinations, is once again grappling with a fresh surge in COVID-19 cases. Just as the tourism sector was bouncing back to near pre-pandemic levels, the latest figures from the Department of Disease Control (DDC) have raised significant concerns among both residents and travelers.
Between May 24 and June 14, Thailand recorded 76,161 new infections and 40 more deaths. So far in 2025, the total case count has surpassed 4.76 lakh (476,000), according to the Bangkok Post.
Worst-Hit Provinces in Thailand
The spike is not limited to a few areas but is widespread across major provinces. The top five regions reporting the highest number of infections are:
- Bangkok – 17,945 cases
- Chon Buri – 3,315 cases
- Nakhon Ratchasima – 3,027 cases
- Chiang Mai – 2,678 cases
- Rayong – 1,775 cases
Bangkok, being Thailand’s bustling capital and most visited city, is naturally at the center of concern, especially for international travelers.
Vulnerable Age Groups at Higher Risk
The elderly population (aged 60 and above) continues to be the most vulnerable, with 14,757 cases in this age bracket. However, working-age individuals are also affected:
- 30–39 years: 14,561 cases
- 20–29 years: 13,889 cases
Experts attribute this sharp rise in cases to increased social gatherings, events, and decreased caution due to the general sense of “pandemic fatigue.” Graphs show that infections are still rising, with no clear signs of stabilization.
Why This Surge Is Worrying
Health experts in Thailand have cautioned the public against dismissing COVID-19 as a thing of the past. Data reveals that, over the past four weeks, COVID-19 has caused 116 deaths — 29 times higher than the toll from seasonal influenza.
The Thai health ministry has reinforced key safety measures:
- Wearing masks in crowded places
- Frequent hand washing
- Getting booster vaccinations, especially for elderly and at-risk individuals
Despite no major lockdown announcements yet, travelers are strongly advised to stay updated on local health advisories.
What About Thailand’s Tourism Industry?
Thailand’s tourism sector has shown remarkable resilience since the pandemic’s first outbreak in 2020. After peaking with nearly 40 million tourists in 2019, numbers fell drastically during lockdown years. However, by 2024, 35 million international visitors had returned, signaling strong recovery.
Bangkok alone drew 32.4 million visitors last year, and projections for 2025 were optimistic before this new surge.
According to GoWithGuide statistics:
- Average tourist spending: $167 per day
- Average stay duration: 9 days
- Contribution to Thailand’s GDP: $48.45 billion (8.9% of GDP in 2019)
The Thai government has actively promoted tourism with visa relaxations, travel festivals, and partnerships with airlines. However, the current COVID-19 outbreak could slow this growth temporarily if the situation worsens.
Ripple Effect: Rising Caution in Malaysia
Neighboring Malaysia is now seeing a renewed interest in vaccinations and booster doses, especially among older adults and high-risk groups. This shift comes as more Malaysians become aware of rising COVID-19 cases in Thailand and Singapore.
Dr. Parmjit Singh, a respected Malaysian medical expert, emphasized in The Straits Times that good hygiene, mask usage in crowded spaces, and prompt medical attention for symptoms are the best defenses at present.
Malaysians, already mindful after past pandemic waves, are stepping up preventive actions without waiting for government mandates.
Should You Travel to Thailand Right Now?
While Thailand’s borders remain open, and there are no current mandatory restrictions on tourists, travelers should weigh their plans carefully:
- Stay updated on provincial case numbers
- Follow WHO guidelines on travel safety
- Buy comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including COVID-19
- Consider postponing non-essential travel, especially if traveling with elderly family members or those with pre-existing health conditions
Gold and Silver Rates Today, June 18: Latest City-Wise Prices and Investment Strategy
[…] Thailand Travel Alert: COVID-19 Cases Cross 4.76 Lakh in 2025 — Should You Rethink Your Plans? […]
[…] Thailand Travel Alert: COVID-19 Cases Cross 4.76 Lakh in 2025 — Should You Rethink Your Plans? […]