New medical treatment instructions for Covid-19 take effect from today
New Covid-19 treatment guidelines, which include prescription of antiviral drugs and Long Acting Antibody (LAAB), come into effect on Wednesday, the Department of Medical Services said.
The guidelines are aimed at making Covid-19 treatment guidelines up to date, the department director-general, Thongchai Keeratihuttayakorn, said.
He explained that patients who develop mild symptoms without risk of lung inflammation or severe symptoms would receive treatment as outpatients at the discretion of physicians.
"Patients in this group must undergo Covid-19 prevention measures, including social distancing, wearing of masks, washing of hands and testing the temperature for at least five days," he said.
"Molnupiravir or Favipiravir antiviral drug would be prescribed to children aged 18 years or below."
He added that patients who develop mild symptoms, but have chronic lung disease, cardiovascular disease or diabetes, would receive LAAB and/or antiviral drugs at the discretion of the doctor.
Despite rising Covid-19 cases in Thailand, Thongchai said only 1,468 of 7,564 beds for Covid-19 patients have been used, accounting for 19.4% bed-occupancy rate.
"We do not expect the bed-occupancy rate to hit 50% during the long holidays in December," he said.
He urged people to receive at least four Covid-19 vaccine jabs to reduce the risk of developing severe symptoms and death.
"Receiving at least four jabs would help build immunity against Covid-19," he said, adding that immunity would drop three months after receiving the latest jab or being infected with Covid-19.
Related stories:
