Government Acknowledges Transmission Possibility from Asymptomatic and Mild Patients

[Asia Economy Reporter Oh Ju-yeon] The government has acknowledged the possibility of transmission by asymptomatic and mild cases of the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia).

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the 2nd, Park Neung-hoo, head of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, said, "The novel coronavirus shows a different transmission pattern compared to existing infectious diseases," adding, "Measurements show that many cases are in a state where symptoms do not appear but the virus is active."

He continued, "It is necessary to focus on blocking transmission through active early diagnosis and isolation to prevent patients from being detected only at severe stages."

Until now, the government had not recognized asymptomatic infection, citing a lack of "scientific evidence."

However, it now views the transmission pattern of the novel coronavirus as having a high possibility of spread through asymptomatic and mild patients, unlike existing coronavirus infections. It also noted that it is difficult to distinguish from common respiratory infections based on symptoms alone, and that although treatment is underway with existing antiviral drugs, their effectiveness has not been sufficiently verified.

Head Park said, "There is a need to strengthen more proactive and bold quarantine measures beyond the level raised scientifically and medically," adding, "From now on is a critical turning point, and we will take measures that may be considered excessive."