Thailand reports record virus cases; Bangkok eases lockdown

Thailand is redoubling efforts to stop the spread of coronavirus in labor camps, factories and markets as the number of new cases surges to record levels

BANGKOK -- Thailand was redoubling efforts to stop the spread of coronavirus in labor camps, factories and markets as the number of new reported cases surged Monday to the highest level so far. A government spokesman said public health officials were meeting with labor and industry officials to discuss better ways to curb infections that are clustered in crowded, high-risk places. The government reported a record 5,485 new cases on Monday, with nearly 2,000 in prisons. Confirmed deaths increased by 19, bringing the total to 1,031 since the pandemic began. Still, Bangkok’s governor said the city would ease some pandemic restrictions, reopening parks, massage parlors and beauty salons, though with precautions such as mandatory masks. Other limits remain in place, such as closures of bars and entertainment venues and a ban on serving alcohol in restaurants.