“COVID Outbreak Again! New XBB Variant Spreads Rapidly, Cases Surge Across Thailand”

In May 2025, Thailand is facing a new wave of COVID-19 infections.

If you experience flu-like symptoms: take an ATK test and self-isolate at home if symptoms are not severe.

The subvariants spreading more widely include XBB.1.16 (also known as “Arcturus”) and XBB.1.9.2, both sublineages of Omicron that have mutations making them more transmissible.

• XBB.1.16 (Arcturus): Detected in about 16.4% of COVID-19 cases in Thailand. Most patients experience fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, phlegm, and body aches. Some may feel fatigued or short of breath. However, symptoms such as red eyes or skin rashes—previously reported abroad—have not been observed in Thailand.
• XBB.1.9.2: Currently the most prevalent variant in Thailand, accounting for 24.5% of all cases. This variant spreads easily and is more capable of evading immunity from vaccines or previous infections.

Preventive measures:

• Wear a face mask, especially in enclosed or crowded places
• Wash hands frequently with soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Practice social distancing and avoid close contact when not necessary
• Get vaccinated or receive a booster shot, especially for high-risk groups such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions

Source:  Thai PBS