Thailand extends lockdown

Helping the needy: Locals affected by the anti-coronavirus government measures receiving free meals in Bangkok during the month-long state of emergency. — AP

THE country will extend a state of emergency over the coronavirus until the end of May, but will consider easing some restrictions on businesses and public activities as the number of new cases has eased, a government spokesman said.

Thailand yesterday reported nine new coronavirus cases and no new local virus transmission in Bangkok for the first time since the outbreak began in January.