Authorities warn the public to follow the rules on Covid control

The National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control on Monday warned the public to continue to take precautions and follow the rules on Covid control.
An official speaking on behalf of the taskforce said “The number of new Covid cases in Laos and neighbouring countries continues to rise and we have to maintain virus control measures, especially with regard to at-risk groups such as the elderly and those with an underlying disease.”
The World Health Organisation (WHO) advises everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible and to stay at least one metre away from other people, even if they don’t appear to be unwell.
In general, it is best to avoid crowds and close contact and wear a properly fitted mask, especially in places where physical distancing is not possible and in poorly ventilated settings.
It is also important to clean your hands frequently with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
WHO suggests covering your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze and disposing of used tissues immediately.
On Monday, the taskforce reported 602 new cases of Covid and two more deaths from the virus.
Of the new cases, 597 were transmitted within Laos while five imported cases were identified in Vientiane.
The new cases were detected among 4,272 samples tested over the previous 24 hours.
The two Covid-related deaths were recorded in Vientiane.
Of the new cases, Vientiane recorded the highest number with 129, followed by the provinces of Xayaboury with 119 new infection, Borikhamxay 77,  Vientiane 50, Xieng Khuang 39, Attapeu 29, and Saravan 26.
Another 23 cases were reported in Khammuan, 21 in Oudomxay, 16 in Luang Prabang, 14 in Luang Namtha, 13 in Phongsaly, and 10 in Champassak.
Xekong reported 8 new cases, Bokeo 8, Xaysomboun 7, Savannakhet 6, and Huaphan 4.
To date, 125,333 Covid cases have been recorded in Laos, including 497 people who have died after contracting the virus.
People who have symptoms of Covid-19, such as a temperature higher than 37C, a cough, sore throat and shortness of breath, or have recently had close contact with a Covid patient, are strongly advised to get tested for the virus.
Tests are available at provincial and district hospitals as well as at specific locations designated by the Covid taskforce.
In Vientiane, tests are available at district and main hospitals, as well as at mobile testing units.
Tests are also available at the Beungkhayong Indoor Sports Centre in Sisattanak district between 9am and 11:30am.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update January 18, 2022)