Assemblyman Yoon So-ha Calls for Strong Preemptive Measures Against 'Wuhan Pneumonia'

Confirmation of Human-to-Human Transmission of Novel Coronavirus

Member of the National Assembly Yoon So-ha (Photo by Yoon So-ha's Office)

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Seo Young-seo] Representative Yoon So-ha announced on the 21st that Chinese health authorities reported that the novel coronavirus, which caused a pneumonia outbreak in Wuhan, China, is transmissible between humans.

Concerns are growing as a Chinese woman who entered through Incheon Airport was confirmed positive on the 20th.

South Korea experienced its first MERS infection case in May 2015, resulting in 186 infected individuals, of whom 38 died.

At that time, the entire country faced a decline in tourists due to MERS fear, economic activities were contracted, and thousands of potential infected individuals were quarantined.

Representative Yoon So-ha stated, “We have realized that early response is crucial for all infectious diseases, and the government must do its best to prevent the novel coronavirus from entering the country, centered on the Central Disease Control Headquarters.” He urged, “To find latent patients who may already be in the country, publicity should be strengthened through broadcasts and media, and an organic cooperation system should be established with each medical institution.”

He continued, “Since the last MERS incident, our Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has been evaluated as managing infectious diseases well,” and added, “I ask that this novel coronavirus situation also be addressed with strong preemptive measures to alleviate public concerns about infectious diseases.”