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Many of Thailand’s Virus Cases Are Male Fans of Boxing, Nightlife Scenes

Many of Thailand’s Virus Cases Are Male Fans of Boxing, Nightlife Scenes

(Bloomberg) --

Many of Thailand’s confirmed coronavirus cases have arisen among men drawn to Thai boxing events and Bangkok’s nightlife.

About two-thirds of the 272 cases confirmed through Thursday are men mostly in Bangkok, according to Health Ministry figures. The number infected jumped to 322 on Friday, with well over 100 of the overall number linked to clusters at boxing stadium events and bars.

These figures may climb as more than 500 people could have been infected at the boxing events, according to Taweesilp Witsanuyotin, a Health Ministry spokesman. A number of cases are working-aged men in their 30s, Taweesilp added.

The ministry said it’s able to trace the sources of infection at boxing stadium events and bars.

Cases in Thailand have jumped in March, prompting the government to temporarily shut schools and universities, as well as many entertainment and recreational venues.

People are also being advised to stay at home as much as possible, while foreign travelers are required to show health certificates before boarding flights to Thailand.

©2020 Bloomberg L.P.