Thai prime minister Prayut in isolation after Covid-19 exposure while in Phuket for Sandbox promotion

Photo of Prayut with Veerasak Pisanuwong posted to Mr. Veerasak’s Facebook page

Thai prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha joins a list of world leaders who have gone into isolation after being near someone who tested positive for Covid-19.

Prayut’s self-isolation, however, is only for a week, unlike the 14 days his government mandates all foreign travelers who arrive anywhere in Thailand except Phuket must be subjected to.

Prayut’s isolation is a self-isolation that is occurring due to the Thai leader being in close contact with someone who tested positive for Covid-19 after the premiere attended events celebrating the kick off of the Phuket Sandbox.

The prime minister was photographed next to the man, Veerasak Pisanuwong, the Surin Chamber of Commerce chairman, while in Phuket for the celebrations.

Mr. Veerasak later uploaded the photo to his Facebook page.  (see above)

The Chamber of Commerce chairman tested positive for Covid-19 after he returned home.

Meanwhile, the Thai leader will remain in isolation in his home in the military compound where he lives for the next week. He will be tested for Covid-19 several times during his isolation.

Prayut was initially tested for Covid-19 as soon as Mr. Veerasak’s positive test was reported, but the test results have not yet been released.