Influenza cases toll in Thailand reach 201 Monday

The number of the new cases is expected to rise every day and the new flu spreading level is likely soon to reach the C level.

He added thermal scanners at airports are ineffective in preventing the spread of the virus as there were large number of air passengers, at least 30,000 per day, arriving in Thailand from affected countries.

The public health ministry will urge Thais to wear face masks as the next step in preventing the spread of the virus more effectively.

Meanwhile Public Health Minister Witthaya Kaewparadai said the spread of the influenza will likely peak in July.

A number of Bangkok schools have closed this week as a preventive measure to limit the spread of the new flu among students, as well as schools upcountry.

Chiangmai Christian School, the latest educational institution following suit in closing school this week after some students were diagnosed as falling ill with flu.

Five schools in Bangkok and two schools in Phatum Thani have closed to cleanse their premises and disinfect the school compounds although some schools have no confirmation of new infections.

The Faculty of Public Health at Mahidol University has also closed after a student contracted the new flu.

Permanent Secretaries for Public Health and Education was due to meet on Monday to work together to prevent the spread of the new flu in educational institutions.