Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health Recommend polling stations to maintain cleanliness to reduce the risk of COVID-19 because a large number of people have exercised their right to vote

Dr. Suwanchai Wattanayingcharoenchai The Director-General of the Department of Health said that May 14, 2023 is the election day for members of the House of Representatives. And it is also during the period that the Meteorological Department announced that Thailand will begin to enter the rainy season. Therefore may cause many areas to have rain This results in increased humidity in the air and may increase the risk of infection with COVID-19. The Department of Health therefore asks for cooperation from polling stations to maintain cleanliness. To create safety for people who come to vote as follows:

1) Polling places Good ventilation should be provided, not overcrowded

. both before entering and exiting the polling station

; and those in polling stations Wear a mask or cloth mask at all times.

4) Set a distance for those who come to vote before entering the booth. to avoid congestion between each other

and 5) equipment should be cleaned. or point of contact or may allow people to bring their own personal pens This can be done according to the Election Commission's regulations on the election of members of the House of Representatives, 2018.

“For the people who exercise their right to vote Voters should be checked through an online website. to reduce the congestion in viewing the list in front of the polling station Bring your own pen to reduce joint contact. Wear a hygienic mask or cloth mask all the time. Avoid touching your face, eyes, mouth, nose unnecessarily. as well as washing hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before entering and exiting the polling place. and there should be some distance between queuing up and entering the booth Avoid group discussions and spend as little time as possible.

In addition, the body should be prepared. Because some polling places may be in outdoor areas, hot weather may cause sweating a lot. Should carry drinking water with you. Including preparing a hat or umbrella to protect from the sun and rain.

However, if the mask or fabric mask is exposed to rain or gets wet, the mask should be replaced with a new one. For risk groups, including pregnant women, the elderly and people with congenital disease. When exposed to extremely hot weather, skin redness and dryness, body heat, lack of sweat, confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness may occur. Therefore, there should be a caregiver accompanying the trip. to provide close supervision And help in time, ”said the Director-General of the Department of Health. – Thai News Agency

Source: Thai News Agency