Thailand Confirms New Bat Coronavirus, No Human Cases
Thailand has confirmed discovery of a new coronavirus strain in bats with no human infections detected, and authorities say the virus poses lower transmission risk than COVID-19. The announcement came as part of government efforts to combat
BANGKOK — May 11, 2026: Thailand's Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE) confirmed reports of a newly discovered coronavirus strain found in bats in Thailand, while stressing that no human infections have been detected and the virus appears less capable of causing disease or spreading than COVID-19.
Spokesperson Wetang Puangsub announced Monday that the findings came from the Anti-Fake News Center (AFNC) as part of the government's intensified effort to combat misinformation. The monitoring follows a directive from DE Minister Chaichanok Chidchob to address national and social security threats. Officials said the ministry is prioritizing public awareness campaigns against cybercrime, fake news, and false information.
The statement followed the AFNC's monitoring of 160,397 online messages on May 9, 2026, of which 8,714 were flagged for verification, mostly from social media and one through Line Official. Among seven widely-discussed cases, two were classified as true, three as false, and two as misleading.
Verified as true: the discovery of the new coronavirus strain in Thai bats and four stricter measures in 31 border provinces to combat smuggling and narcotics trafficking.
Classified as false: claims about online driving license applications via TikTok, allegations that new Southern Economic Corridor laws would allow casinos and 99-year land leases, and a fraudulent Facebook page impersonating the Department of Skill Development to recruit home-based paper bag packers.
Classified as misleading: assertions that tongue characteristics can diagnose internal diseases and reports of the "MOU44" maritime agreement's cancellation.
Authorities confirmed that the new bat coronavirus discovery was verified through cooperation with the Department of Disease Control under the Ministry of Public Health, using the "One Health" surveillance approach that monitors diseases affecting humans, animals, and the environment.
Studies indicate the virus has lower transmission and severe illness potential than COVID-19, and existing COVID-19 vaccines are believed to remain effective in reducing severe symptoms if infections occur. Officials assessed the current risk of widespread outbreak as low.
The ministry urged the public to verify information before sharing and to rely only on official sources to prevent confusion, misinformation, and potential harm to personal data or property.
