Dr. Yong Poovorawan, head of the Clinical Virology Department at Chulalongkorn University, indicated that Covid-19 cases in Thailand tend to rise in early April, coinciding with the Songkran celebrations. This pattern differs from other respiratory illnesses like influenza, which typically surge during the rainy season or after the start of the academic year.

Drawing from a study of over 8,000 Covid cases from the previous year, Yong noted that the virus's spread is facilitated by crowded gatherings in confined spaces and increased mobility during the festival period.

While acknowledging that the Covid virus is more transmissible than the influenza virus, Yong emphasized that its current severity is comparable to that of the common flu. Consequently, treatment primarily focuses on symptom management, except for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, individuals with obesity, or those with compromised immune systems. These populations may require antiviral medications and close monitoring to prevent complications.

As of now, the JN.1 Omicron subvariant remains the dominant strain in Thailand, accounting for approximately 65% of Covid-19 cases, followed by the XEC and LP.B.1 subvariants.

Songkran, a popular water-fighting festival that attracts tourists from around the world, typically lasts for nearly a week.

Despite its popularity, Songkran has been referred to as the "seven dangerous days" by authorities for over a decade to highlight the heightened road safety risks during the celebration.

At least 100 people died in road accidents during the first three days of Songkran which began on April 11.