Health Authorities "Increase in COVID-19 Cases in Small and Medium Churches... Strongly Request Cancellation or Postponement of Small Gatherings"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Eunmo Koo] The quarantine authorities recently reported an increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19 related to small and medium-sized churches and strongly requested that small gatherings with a high risk of transmission be refrained from. They especially emphasized that high-risk groups vulnerable to COVID-19, such as the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should participate in religious events through non-face-to-face methods with heightened awareness.

Jung Eun-kyung, head of the Central Disease Control Headquarters (CDCH), urged at a regular briefing held on the 6th at the Osong Disease Control Headquarters in Chungbuk, "In religious facilities, please cancel or postpone small gatherings where there is a high risk of droplet transmission, such as crowded conversations, singing hymns, or eating together, and switch to non-face-to-face methods as much as possible."

She continued, "If on-site worship is unavoidable, reduce the size to allow for distancing between participants, and ensure that those with fever or suspicious symptoms do not attend. Hand washing and mask-wearing are necessary, and activities such as providing meals or singing, which can cause droplets to spread, should be avoided," she emphasized.

Referring to recent on-site investigations, Head Jung explained, "Churches with many confirmed cases were either underground or had poor ventilation, creating enclosed environments. There were many activities such as singing hymns, eating, and refreshments that could spread droplets, and compliance with daily quarantine rules like mask-wearing was poor."

The quarantine authorities expressed concern over the increase in severe cases as the proportion of confirmed cases aged 65 and older has risen recently, recommending that the elderly and others participate in religious activities through non-face-to-face methods.

Head Jung said, "We strongly recommend that high-risk groups such as elderly seniors, chronic disease patients, and pregnant women participate in religious events through non-face-to-face means or via broadcast and online." She added, "For the elderly, please avoid visiting enclosed places without windows or proper ventilation, and try to avoid gatherings where many people assemble in such places."

She also requested chronic disease patients to continue treatment and exercise regularly. Head Jung said, "Due to social distancing, some people are reluctant to visit medical institutions and avoid treatment for existing conditions. Please receive regular check-ups and strictly adhere to medication through phone consultations or other means." She added, "When visiting hospitals, always wear a mask, and even at home, do exercises such as calisthenics and take regular walks or strolls in less crowded places."