Two migrant workers returning from Thailand are suspected to have the COVID-19 virus. Both have been admitted to the Mawlamyine hospital in Mon State.
According to Dr. Win Ba Ba Htay, Assistant Director (Extended Vaccine/ Infection) of the Mon State Department of Public Health, “The [two migrant workers] reported having a fever and went to the hospital. [They] have been quarantined because it’s not okay for them to stay home.”
Both individuals returned from Thailand on March 22nd. On the morning of March 23rd, they went to be checked for COVID-19, and to get a medical examination, according to Ko Bo Bo Win from the Bo Bo Social Relief Team.
“At the time of their arrival, the man had a fever while the woman [did not have symptoms at that time]. We followed them to question and take some notes. We let them take a rest for a while before we tried to measure their temperature again. We then called the local nurse to come and check, and both of them then [displayed] fever.” said Ko Bo Bo Win.
He added that he informed the health department and sent the people to the quarantine department of the Mawlamyine hospital.
“The two people returned from Bangkok last night with a fever. They were sent to the hospital as they were suspected [of having the virus]. All six family members whom they stayed with have already had their temperatures taken, but they have no fever. A 14-day home quarantine is required and they will be monitored for 14 days,” said U Han Win Tun, Ngan Thea Ward Health Officer..
With the collaboration of the Mon State government and civil society organizations, people travelling by car and entering Mawlamyine from Myawaddy have their temperatures taken and undergo a medical examination near the Attran Bridge starting from March 21st.
Many Myanmar nationals working in Thailand are now back in the country, and there is a high possibility of community infections (person-to-person transfer, not linked with travel outside of Myanmar) within the country.
According to news reports, more than 20,000 Myanmar migrant workers returned from Thailand within three days. Due to the large number of returnees, it is impossible to quarantine them in one facility. Returnees must stay in quarantine within their homes, emphasized the Union Minister for Health and Sports Dr. Myint Htwe
The Minister stressed that people returning from Thailand must conscientiously adhere to the requirements for Home Quarantine for up to 14 days. They must also inform their parents, relatives, neighbors to prevent spreading the virus.
Those in quarantine must also report on their conditions daily via telephone to the relevant health department. This will help enable treatments.
