COVID-19 Surges in Trump Election Campaign Areas in the US

Trump Plans Campaign Rally in New Hampshire on the 11th

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] It has been pointed out by local health officials that U.S. President Donald Trump's election campaign rallies contributed to the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) within the United States.

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

On the 8th (local time), Dr. Bruce Dart, the director of the Tulsa County Health Department in Oklahoma, said, "About 500 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in the past two days," adding, "This is related to several large-scale events held two weeks ago, and we can draw a connection to this."

U.S. media outlets inquired whether contact tracing confirmed that infections occurred at President Trump's rallies, but this information was not disclosed due to privacy concerns. However, Dr. Dart pointed out that "large gatherings in the area can influence the spread of COVID-19."

Earlier, Dr. Dart and others urged the cancellation of President Trump's election rallies due to concerns over COVID-19 spread. Nevertheless, President Trump proceeded with the campaign schedule. At that time, many attendees did not wear masks or take sufficient measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Meanwhile, President Trump plans to hold a rally on the 11th at Portsmouth International Airport in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. However, starting with this rally, attendees will be encouraged to wear masks.