Thai media networks urge all news outlets to observe rules of engagement in crisis situations

A man spraying disinfectant inside at Wat Pho temple as prevention after the coronavirus outbreak in Bangkok, Thailand, on Saturday (March 14). Media outlets in the country have been told to adhere to ethical standards in their reporting of the Covid-19 (coronavirus) outbreak and to exercise caution to avoid creating widespread panic amongst readers and viewers. - Reuters

BANGKOK: Six Thai media associations on Saturday (March 14) issued a joint statement to remind all news outlets to adhere to ethical standards in their reporting of the Covid-19 (coronavirus) outbreak and to exercise caution to avoid creating widespread panic amongst readers and viewers.

"We would also like to remind the media to exercise caution when reporting of the outbreak so that their actions do not impact upon the public interest or safety," said in the statement released on Saturday.