Cabinet Approves PCV Vaccines Infant Vaccinations Start Q3; "UC-Hero" Launched for Families of Fallen Soldiers

Today (May 12, 2026) at approximately 12:30 PM at Government House, a Cabinet meeting was held with Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, presiding over the session. Mr. Phattana Phromphat, Minister of Public Health, attended the meeting and addressed the media, encouraging the public to receive influenza vaccinations for health maintenance. He also provided an update on the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV), stating that the Cabinet has been informed of its official inclusion as a state health benefit. The vaccine is expected to be available in the third quarter of this year, around July or August, with infants under 12 months targeted as the first priority group to receive the shots.

Furthermore, the Minister discussed the "UC-Hero" initiative organized by the NHSO for the families of soldiers who lost their lives during clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border. Since healthcare benefits for a soldier's family typically terminate upon their passing, the government recognizes the importance of providing moral support to these heroes. The UC-Hero scheme was created to ensure that the families of the fallen continue to receive benefits as if the soldier were still alive. This matter will be presented at the NHSO meeting on June 5, where it is expected to be finalized quickly to provide immediate care for the families.

Regarding the Hantavirus situation, Mr. Phattana confirmed that the virus is not currently spreading in Thailand. In the Southeast Asian region, there has been only one reported case involving a Singaporean traveler on a cruise ship, who is currently undergoing the standard quarantine process. The Ministry of Public Health, through the Department of Disease Control, continues to monitor the situation closely, particularly among tourists entering Thailand via land, water, and air. He emphasized that Hantavirus is not a new disease, though some strains may be transmissible from person to person. However, since the rate of transmission is not rapid, the public is advised to stay informed and exercise caution without succumbing to panic.

Photo : Yanawut Samphaothong