BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has introduced stricter measures for travelers arriving from or transiting through the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda to protect public health. DDC Director-General Dr. Montien Kanasawat stated that these measures aim to enhance Thailand’s readiness against Ebola virus disease, which is still classified as a dangerous communicable disease in both countries. Under the new guidelines, travelers from or transiting through the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda must undergo mandatory quarantine or isolation for at least 21 days. Asymptomatic travelers will be quarantined at designated facilities, while those with symptoms will be isolated at government medical centers.
Authorities have proposed that travelers from these countries enter Thailand only through Suvarnabhumi Airport to support effective disease surveillance and control. The Department of Disease Control has prepared quarantine facilities for affected travelers entering Thailand from 6:00 p.m. on May 27, and will continue to monitor the situation to adjust public health measures as needed.
The DDC reminded travelers that failure to comply with communicable disease control orders may result in legal penalties under the Communicable Disease Act B.E. 2558 (2015). Individuals who refuse to comply with quarantine or isolation orders may face fines of up to 20,000 baht. Those who leave designated quarantine or isolation facilities without authorization may face imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both. Authorities urge all travelers to provide accurate travel information and assure the public that Thailand is fully prepared with trained personnel, medical supplies, and advanced laboratory capabilities to monitor and respond to potential disease threats. (NNT)
