300 Additional Victims Recognized for Humidifier Disinfectant Damage... Total 3,284 Victims

Ministry of Environment Holds the 19th Humidifier Disinfectant Damage Relief Committee Meeting
First Meeting Since the Enforcement of the Revised Humidifier Disinfectant Damage Relief Act

On the 31st of last month, nine years after the government officially recognized the damage caused by humidifier disinfectants, the Environmental Health Citizens' Center and families of the victims held a press conference at Gwanghwamun Square. (Image source=Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] The government has recognized an additional 300 victims of humidifier disinfectant damage.

On the afternoon of the 29th, the Ministry of Environment held the '19th Humidifier Disinfectant Damage Relief Committee' at the Hangang Flood Control Office and announced that it reviewed and resolved the results of the expedited review following the enforcement of the amended 'Special Act on Relief for Humidifier Disinfectant Damage.'

This review was the first held since the amended Special Act came into effect on the 25th.

Through the review, 300 people who had not previously been recognized as victims or had not received a judgment were newly acknowledged as victims.

The total number of victims receiving support under the Special Act on Relief for Humidifier Disinfectant Damage has reached 3,284, excluding those recognized for overlapping diseases.

The expedited review examines only health insurance claim data for three diseases occurring after exposure to humidifier disinfectants: interstitial lung disease (integrated for children and adults), asthma, and pneumonia.

Applicants recognized as victims through the expedited review can apply for medical benefits and nursing care expenses. Subsequently, after a health damage grade assessment, they will receive a medical living allowance.

The Ministry of Environment plans to focus on conducting expedited reviews until the end of the year.

The committee also discussed the 'Amendment to the Operating Rules' on the same day.

The amendment includes a principle of disclosing committee meeting minutes, while personal information and other exceptions will remain confidential.

The meeting minutes will be published on the 'Humidifier Disinfectant Damage Support Comprehensive Portal.'

The Investigation and Judgment Expert Committee must review the applicant's statement of opinion during the examination process.

Additionally, 2,143 people eligible for substantial support from the special relief account will receive certificates recognizing health damage starting from the first week of next month.

Hamina, Director of Environmental Health Policy at the Ministry of Environment, said, "With the enforcement of the amended Special Act, we plan to proceed with the victim recognition process as quickly as possible," adding, "We will do our best to ensure that the related support system proceeds without any setbacks."