Establishment of Forward Emergency Operations Centre

In response to a cholera outbreak in Myanmar, the Thai Public Health Ministry has established a forward emergency operations centre (EOC) in Tak province. This initiative aims to monitor and mitigate the impact of the outbreak, particularly as two suspected cases have been reported in Tak.

High-Risk Area Monitoring

Opas Karnkawinpong, permanent secretary at the Public Health Ministry, stated that Tak province is at high risk for spillover from the cholera outbreak originating from Shwe Kokko town in Myanmar. The forward EOC will be crucial in overseeing health measures and ensuring community safety.

• Leadership Structure: The Tak Public Health Office will serve as the forward EOC, with acting public health inspector-general Dr. Supachoke Vejaphanphesat appointed as the situation commander. Sopon Iamsirithaworn, chief inspector-general of the ministry, will act as an adviser to the EOC.

Cholera Outbreak Details

Current Situation in Myanmar

The cholera outbreak has affected approximately 300 individuals in Shwe Kokko, resulting in two fatalities. Reports indicate that 56 patients have been admitted to Shwe Kokko Hospital, while two suspected cases have been transferred to hospitals in Tak—Mae Sod Hospital and Mae Ramat Hospital. Medical professionals are currently awaiting lab results for these cases.

• Preventative Measures: The forward EOC will closely monitor high-risk areas, including border communities and temporary shelters, to prevent further spread of the disease.

Community Engagement and Education

Collaboration with Local Stakeholders

To enhance monitoring efforts, drugstores, community leaders, and Myanmar health volunteers will be engaged to report any suspected cholera cases to the forward EOC.

• Educational Initiatives: Officials will also educate Myanmar workers living along the border on how to protect themselves from cholera. They will be instructed to report any instances of watery diarrhea as potential cases for immediate lab testing.

Resource Management and Preparedness

Ensuring Availability of Medical Supplies

The forward EOC will assess the availability of medications for treating diarrhea cases in Tak province. If necessary, they will seek additional medical supplies from the Public Health Ministry.

• Proactive Approach: This proactive strategy aims to ensure that local healthcare facilities are prepared to handle any increase in cholera cases and maintain public health safety.

Vigilance Against Cholera Spread

The establishment of the emergency operations centre in Tak reflects Thailand’s commitment to public health and safety amid a cholera outbreak in neighboring Myanmar. By monitoring high-risk areas and engaging local communities, authorities aim to prevent further spread of the disease and protect citizens’ health. Continued vigilance and proactive measures are essential as the situation develops.

Streamlining Travel with Digital Identification

The Thai government has announced that Thai nationals can now utilize the ThaID app to present a valid digital identification card when checking in for flights. This initiative aims to simplify the travel experience during the busy New Year season, making airport check-ins more efficient.

Benefits of Using ThaID at Airports

The ThaID app enhances the check-in process at major airports, including Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi. According to Jirayu Houngsub, spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office, using the app in conjunction with an airline’s online check-in service significantly reduces travel hassles.

• Convenient Online Check-In: Passengers can also check in online via the Airports of Thailand website, allowing them to proceed directly to the flight gate with an electronically issued boarding pass. This process helps minimize queuing times at check-in counters.

Enhanced Security and Efficiency Measures

Automated Biometric Identification System

In addition to the ThaID app, airports are implementing a new automated biometric identification system designed to expedite the boarding pass verification process.

• Quick Passage Through Security: This system allows passengers to move quickly through security checks, further streamlining their travel experience during peak times.

Government Initiatives for Greater Convenience

Promoting Digital ID Usage

As part of efforts to improve convenience for travelers, all state agencies are accelerating the implementation of the government’s digital ID system. The ThaID app serves multiple purposes beyond air travel:

• Versatile Applications: It can be used in various situations, such as notifying authorities about moving in or out of a residence, making it a valuable tool for citizens.

A Modern Approach to Travel

The introduction of the ThaID app represents a significant advancement in Thailand’s travel infrastructure, facilitating smoother airport experiences for passengers. By embracing digital solutions, the government aims to enhance convenience and efficiency during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Travelers are encouraged to take advantage of these innovations for a hassle-free journey.

Anticipated Increase in Passenger Traffic

Airports of Thailand (AoT) is preparing for a busy holiday season, forecasting a 13.3% increase in both domestic and international flights at Don Mueang Airport during the New Year period. With an expected 717,002 passengers passing through the airport, preparations are underway to accommodate this surge.

Flight and Passenger Projections

According to AoT President Kerati Kijmanawat, the number of planned flights represents an impressive 88.62% rebound compared to pre-COVID-19 figures. This year’s passenger estimate marks a 19.96% increase from the same period last year, indicating a strong recovery in air travel.

• Daily Passenger Expectations: The airport anticipates handling approximately 102,429 passengers each day throughout the festive travel period, which spans from December 27 to January 2.

Detailed Flight Schedule for the New Year Period

Breakdown of Scheduled Flights

During the New Year travel period, a total of 4,671 flights are scheduled to operate at Don Mueang Airport, averaging about 668 flights per day.

• Domestic vs. International Flights: Among these flights, 1,980 are domestic while 2,691 are international, reflecting a 13.32% increase compared to the previous year’s New Year travel period.

Enhanced Airport Services and Facilities

Preparations for Increased Passenger Volume

To ensure a smooth experience for travelers, Don Mueang Airport is implementing several measures:

• 24/7 Passenger Facilitation Center: A dedicated passenger facilitation center will operate around the clock from December 27 to January 2 to assist with inquiries and services.
• New IT System Implementation: The airport will adopt an “Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM)” system to enhance operational efficiency and coordination among airlines.

Parking and Shuttle Services for Travelers

Convenient Parking Options

For passengers who wish to leave their vehicles at the airport during their travels, Don Mueang Airport is offering free parking for up to 250 cars in designated areas.

• Shuttle Bus Services: Free shuttle bus services will be available daily from 6 AM to 10 PM to help passengers navigate between different points within the airport.

Commitment to Passenger Comfort and Safety

Improvements in Facilities and Security

In anticipation of increased foot traffic, Don Mueang Airport is committed to ensuring passenger comfort and safety:

• Enhanced Waiting Areas: The airport will provide ample waiting space and improve restroom cleanliness. Additional mobile phone charging points will also be installed.
• Increased Security Measures: Security protocols will be heightened with additional patrols and enhanced CCTV surveillance throughout the airport premises.

Travel Recommendations for Passengers

Tips for a Smooth Journey

Despite the airport’s preparations, travelers are advised to plan ahead due to expected heavy traffic during the holiday season:

• Arrive Early: International passengers should arrive at least three hours before their flight, while domestic travelers should allow at least two hours.

Preparing for a Busy Holiday Season

As airports gear up for a bustling Christmas and New Year period, travelers can expect significant increases in flight schedules and passenger traffic. With enhanced services and facilities in place at Don Mueang Airport, passengers are encouraged to take advantage of these offerings while planning their journeys carefully. Safe travels!