Cambodia on March 23 recorded two more patients tested positive for the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, raising the tally to 86.

People in the Philippines wear facemasks to prevent the spread of coronavirus. (Photo: AFP/VNA)

All schools across the country had been ordered to close in an effort to counter the threat of the pandemic.

Earlier, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen issued urgent measures to prevent and contain the spread of COVID-19.

Also on March 23, Thailand’s Ministry of Health confirmed 122 new cases, bringing the country’s total to 721. Of which, 52 have recovered while 668 remain in hospital. One death has been reported.

The Thai government is making preparations to cope with the third stage of the COVID-19 outbreak, which would include a countrywide lockdown, according to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

Meanwhile, the Philippines’ health ministry on March 23 confirmed eight more fatalities and 16 new infections, raising the national tolls to 33 and 396 respectively.

The same day, the Philippine congress held a special online session to discuss efforts to prevent the rapid spread of coronavirus.

Source: VNA