Haenam-gun's Strong Proactive Response to 'Stop COVID-19'

Suspension of Major Facility Operations, Distribution of Masks and Other Quarantine Supplies
Real-Time Surveillance System Installed at Military Offices with Frequent External Visitors

Eight thermal imaging cameras have been installed at Haenam County Office, public health centers, terminals, and other locations to thoroughly monitor the number of people entering and exiting. (Photo by Haenam County)

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Seo Young-seo] As COVID-19 confirmed cases are spreading nationwide, Haenam-gun is taking strong preemptive measures to block the influx of infectious diseases.

According to Haenam-gun on the 28th, there are no confirmed cases or quarantined individuals related to COVID-19, and a total of 47 residents have been tested through screening clinics set up at the public health center and local general hospitals. Of these, 24 tested negative, and specimens from 23 are currently under review.

Additionally, on the 27th, a full investigation was conducted on 116 Shincheonji church members in the area, revealing no symptomatic individuals. However, continuous monitoring will be conducted twice daily.

Furthermore, nine residents who returned on the 25th after a pilgrimage to European holy sites are being monitored twice daily for symptoms, with no abnormalities found. Although they are not subject to self-quarantine, they are maintaining lifestyle rules equivalent to self-quarantine until the 10th of next month as a proactive preventive measure.

To preemptively prevent the influx of COVID-19, Haenam-gun has temporarily closed and suspended operations of major tourist facilities, the county cultural and arts center, and the Useul Sports Center since the 25th.

In particular, eight thermal imaging cameras have been installed at the county office, public health center, and terminal to thoroughly check incoming personnel. Since the county office is the place with the highest number of visitors from outside the area, all entrances except the main entrance are blocked, and entry is allowed only after disinfection and wearing masks.

Residents’ situations are being regularly monitored through towns and townships to carefully manage and prevent gatherings or travel to outbreak areas.

Approximately 60,000 masks, 5,000 bottles of hand sanitizers and disinfectants, and sterilizers have been distributed to residents, and diluted disinfectants for voluntary disinfection are also being distributed to small businesses and individual households through the public health center.

In this regard, the county has designated every Friday as a unified disinfection day, conducting large-scale disinfection of multi-use facilities in the area in cooperation with all county offices and departments, towns and townships, police, fire departments, and volunteer fire brigades.

The disinfection targets include child facilities such as child centers and daycare centers, social welfare facilities, transportation facilities such as terminals, taxi and bus stops, convenience facilities such as rest areas and public restrooms, senior centers and village halls, bathhouses, and traditional markets. Unified disinfection of the county office, town and township offices, and major tourist sites is also conducted simultaneously.

County Governor Myeong Hyeon-gwan stated, “Although no suspected or confirmed cases of the new COVID-19 have occurred in Haenam-gun yet, we are making efforts to block its influx by mobilizing all administrative power preemptively, so there is no need to be overwhelmed by excessive fear or rumors. We ask for your understanding as these measures, including suspension of facility use and control of county office access, may cause some inconvenience but are necessary to respond proactively to prevent the influx of COVID-19.”

Meanwhile, symptoms of COVID-19 infection include fever, dry cough, and difficulty breathing, similar to a cold. Residents with symptoms should immediately contact 1339, Haenam Public Health Center, or the Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters.