The government is speeding up efforts to convince those who have not been vaccinated to get their Covid-19 jabs, while also making moves to source 120 million booster shots for next year.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is inviting all Thais and foreigners aged 12 and over who have yet to receive a vaccine to do so at vaccination sites and mobile vaccination units nationwide, deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said on Tuesday.
The Ministry of Public Health is counting down to Sunday when it aims to hit its target of administering 100 million doses, she said.
The ministry has been running a weeklong vaccination campaign since Saturday, she said, adding that several provinces have come up with incentives for unvaccinated people.
Maha Sarakham is offering new vaccine recipients a chance to win prizes in a lucky draw including gold necklaces, while Yala is giving away free bags of rice to all those who get jabs, she said.
Songkhla is also running a lucky draw and free rice while Narathiwat has joined hands with a department store to offer gifts to those who shop there after getting their shots, she said.
In response to concerns raised over any unwanted side effects of the Covid-19 vaccines, Ms Rachada said the National Health Security Office has pledged financial aid of up to 400,000 baht to anyone who suffers serious side effects as part of a no-fault compensation programme.
In Lampang, Dr Prasoet Kitsuwannarat, the chief health officer, said the province is encouraging the 70,000 people who have yet to be vaccinated to do so.
Those who are not satisfied with the provision of AstraZeneca for their first shot and Pfizer for their second can now request the Covid-19 vaccine of their choice provided they have a good explanation, he said.
These reasons will be compiled and taken into account when the province decides on its next vaccination programme, he added.