Update: COVID on Samui

Here is a quick update on COVID in Samui, as at 13th August 2021.

1. How many confirmed cases are there on Samui?

 

2. Should I get a COVID test?

If you have symptoms or have had contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, the recommendation is to get a COVID test.  

If you’re not sure if you should get a test, why not do this online risk assessment form provided by the Rajavithi Hospital. Just use this as a guide.  If you’re not sure, please contact a medical professional.

https://covid19.rajavithi.go.th/test/en_index.php


3. What types of COVID tests are available?

  • RT-PCR Test – The PCR test is one of the most accurate test methods, and detects if you have the virus. Note, there’s a delay between infection and when the virus level is high enough in the body to be detected. If you aren’t showing any symptoms, it has been recommended to isolate at home and wait 5 days before getting tested. 
  • Antigen Rapid Test – the Antigen Rapid Test (ART) is quick and cheap, but less accurate than the PCR test.  Also, if you make the test too early it may not detect if you have COVID.  If you have had contact with someone with COVID, and your first Rapid Test comes back negative, it has been recommended to isolate at home and re-test again after 5 days.   More info: Bangkok Post

 

3. Where can I get an Antigen Rapid Test

You can buy Antigen Rapid Test kits from the pharmacies on the island, if you wish to make a test at home.  Approximate cost 1500 Baht for a pack of 5. 


4.  What happens if you test positive to the Antigen Rapid Test?

If you make an Antigen Rapid Test (ART) and the result is positive, the local health professionals advise that you should go to the hospital to make a PCR test, to confirm whether you do in fact have COVID, and so you can receive the appropriate medical care.    

Some of the clinics are applying to be able to provide medical care for people recovering in home isolation.  But unfortunately it’s not available yet. 

Further information below, in point 6.


5. Where can I get a COVID PCR test?

  • Samui Hospital in Nathon – cost for the PCR test is 2150 THB per person, for foreigners. 
  • Bangkok Samui Hospital – cost for the PCR test is 5500 THB per person, if you get tested before 1pm, you will get your result in 24 hours.  If you go after 1pm, it will take 48 hours to get the result.  
  • Samui Home Clinic in Bangrak – cost 3800 THB per person for the COVID-19 RT-PCR test.  They are mostly testing for people wanting to travel overseas.  If you think you might have COVID you are recommended to go to one of the hospitals for a PCR test. 

 

6.  What happens if you test positive?

The Department of Disease Control has insisted that all COVID-19 cases, even asymptomatic ones, must be treated in hospital to cut down on fatalities and curb the spread of disease.

So, that means – if you test positive for COVID, you will be taken to the Hospital and put into isolation (we think for 14 days).  Even if you are asymptomatic.  Most people are being taken to Samui Hospital in Nathon, and patients who are asymptomatic or just have light symptoms have been taken to an ALSQ Hotel.

Note: The Thai government will not pay for the medical expenses of foreigners – so if you don’t have health insurance, you will have to pay for everything. 

 

7. Where can I find news updates about Thailand and Samui?

We recommend the following news sources to stay up to date on the situation:

 https://www.sistersonsamui.org/news-sources-in-thailand/

 

8. What about if I need to travel from Bangkok to Samui?

There are some new guidelines in place regarding travel from/to dark red zones.  It’s best to check with ferry company for the latest information.   

For more information about flights, please contact Bangkok Airways or your international airline.

 

8. Do I need to wear a mask when I’m outside of my home?

Yes, you must wear your mask at all times when you’re away from your residence.  This is the law for Suratthani province, and the maximum fine is 20,000 THB.  Effective 20th April 2021.


9. Where can I find information about COVID vaccines in Samui?

Visit our COVID Vaccinations blog here – where we share information on how to register for the vaccine. 


10. Can you recommend some news sources?

Visit our News Sources blog here – where we recommend some sites and social media pages to follow (in English and in Thai).

 

Please stay safe everyone!!

If you have to go out, make sure to wear your mask, wash your hands and make sure you are social distancing! 

#staysafe #savesamui