Foreigners In Thailand Register For A Vaccine, Receive A 1970 Appointment Date

Vaccine appointment error


Thailand has been diligently assuring foreign residents that they will receive a Covid-19 vaccine. Earlier this week on 7th June 2021, Thailand Intervac website was launched for expats living in Thailand to register for their inoculations.

Like all systems, though, there are bound to be errors.

For example, in the case of these two individuals who were able to secure a vaccine appointment, but for 50 years in the past.

Let’s see the glitches in the system.


Vaccine appointment made for 1970


From 7th June 2021, foreign residents in Thailand who are over the age of 60 and having one of seven chronic diseases said to be high-risk for contracting Covid-19 can register for a shot online. The process seemed convenient and error-proof. However, two expats who tried to book a vaccine appointment were given an appointment for 1st January 1970.

Ms. Luci Standley, a British national who has lived in Thailand for 40 years made the appointment for herself and her husband earlier this week.

Ms. Standley stated that she’s heard of other foreigners experiencing similar issues and attributed the error to the system being overwhelmed, as written on Thai PBS World.


What’s available?


Hopefully, everyone will be able to register for their Covid-19 vaccines without fail.

Alternative registration channels include through employers, embassies and private hospitals.

As of right now, vaccination registration is available for foreigners who are over the age of 60 or have: diabetes, severe chronic respiratory disease, have experienced a stroke, are undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, obesity, are in the fifth stage of chronic kidney disease or have coronary artery disease.

Currently, the two inoculations available are Coronavac and AstraZeneca.


Sit tight and stay safe


With the start of the vaccination drive, normalcy seems just a little bit closer. Let’s hope that the inoculation process, as well as the registration procedures, go smoothly for everyone who signs up.

In the meantime, it’s important to continue practising safety measures like wearing a mask, washing your hands and maintaining social distancing.


Cover image adapted from: Mario Jose Sanchez for AP Photos via WRIC

Enjoying The Smart Local Thailand? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more stories like this.

Sam Mai: