New Covid-19 restrictions came into force in Thailand to try to halt a spiralling outbreak that saw deaths hit a record single-day high over the weekend.

In Bangkok — where the latest outbreak has been traced back to a nightlife district — as well as 47 other provinces, wearing masks is now compulsory in public spaces, with some locations backing it up with the threat of a 20,000 baht ($640) fine, according to AFP.

Authorities in the capital have also closed a raft of venues including cinemas, parks, gyms, swimming pools, spas and nurseries. The new restrictions come a week after authorities ordered bars and nightclubs to close and banned restaurants from serving alcohol.

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