The government will not impose a lockdown despite concerns about the Omicron variant of Covid-19, but the closure of entertainment venues will likely be extended, the prime minister said on Thursday.
Prayut Chan-o-cha said a nationwide lockdown was unnecessary. The government would continue to test arriving travellers for the new variant.
The government needed to prioritise both public safety and the national economy, the prime minister said.
In the interests of public health, the government might also have to further delay the reopening of pubs, bars and karaoke shops, he said.
"We would like to wait and see for a month. in this matter, we must listen to doctors and health authorities," Prayut said.
"Enclosed venues where crowds gather and drink pose high risks," he added.
He said no Omicron cases had been detected in Thailand to date.
