Wat Phra Singh was the scene of traditional ceremonies to mark the beginning
of the 3 month ‘Rains Retreat’, also known as Buddhist Lent. Pictured,
on Asalaha Bucha Day, the day before the beginning of Buddhist Lent,
are worshippers from the community lighting candles and incense sticks
in reverence to the Buddha images and monks at the revered temple.

continued | more news

Government announces further measures to halt spread of H1N1

Following its meeting July 9, further measures have been announced by the cabinet in an attempt to contain the spread of the H1N1 virus in Thailand.
Tutorial schools countrywide, held to give extra tuition outside normal school hours, have been ordered to close for 15 days, with internet cafes, bars and nightclubs being instructed to regularly clean and disinfect their premises, air conditioners, computers and other devices, as well as keeping rooms well ventilated and providing sanitising gel for their customers.
A further meeting held by Chiang Mai provincial authorities on July 10 was attended by the Chiang Mai governor Amornpan Nimanant, his deputy, Chumporn Saengmanee, Dr. Wattana Kanjanakamon and Dr. Surasing Witsarujratana, from the Provincial Public Health Office, the director of the Educational Service Area Office 1, Kosol Prakam, and PR official Tantip Tong-ngamkam. The meeting reconvened on July 11.