BANGKOK, April 24 (Xinhua) -- It is unlikely the lockdown restrictions in Thailand will be relaxed on May 1 despite the low numbers of new infections, a spokesman of the government's Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) said on Friday.
The CCSA on Friday reported 15 new COVID-19 cases, but no new death. The number of fatalities remained at 50, while 2,490 patients have recovered and returned to their homes and 314 are undergoing treatment in hospitals.
The Total tally of COVID-19 cases reached 2,854.
CCSA spokesman Taweesin Visanuyothin said in the last two weeks, new cases have been generally on a downward trend. However, he urged all Thais to main social distancing.
"We cannot afford the second wave and third wave of the disease outbreak because we would otherwise lose lives and money," Taweesin said.
He explained that the estimated the cost of COVID-19 treatment is at 1 million baht (30,817 U.S. dollars) per patient and that Thailand is treating close to 3,000 patients.
If the number soars to five digits like those in other countries, there will be greater impacts on the economy, Taweesin said.
He said the Thai government must be extremely cautious in its decision to lift restrictions, quoting "Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, who is also the CCSA chairman, has always insisted on extreme caution, with all aspects to be considered and approval of the cabinet being required before any restrictions are eased." Enditem
