"If Tension Slightly Relaxes, There Is a Possibility of COVID-19 Resurgence"
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] As the number of new domestic COVID-19 cases remained in the 300s for two consecutive days, health authorities stated that the situation is still not safe and expressed their intention to gradually ease social distancing and quarantine measures by assessing the risk level going forward.
Son Young-rae, head of the Social Strategy Division at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH), said at a press briefing on the 19th, "We recognize that a strong global pandemic is occurring this winter," adding, "Especially in our country, we still feel that it is not safe, so we remain vigilant." He emphasized, "Although it is true that the number of cases is clearly decreasing compared to other weeks, if vigilance is relaxed even slightly, COVID-19 could resurge."
On the same day, Son reiterated the importance of adhering to quarantine rules at karaoke rooms, which recently resumed operations. He said, "In November and December, the number of users decreased, so mass infections have not occurred frequently," but expressed concern, stating, "Since people sing for long periods in enclosed rooms, masks must be worn at all times, and even with masks, saliva droplets are emitted."
Referring to past cases, he added, "Saliva droplets produced during continuous singing in karaoke rooms are heavy and can travel up to 2 meters, so maintaining a 2-meter distance is recommended as a basic rule." Son pointed out, "Especially in karaoke rooms, many saliva droplets are continuously emitted, which eventually turn into lighter droplets that float in the air. In the past, there were about two cases where people located 7 meters away in other rooms were infected while passing through the corridor, not just those within a 2-meter radius."
He explained, "The number of users should be limited so that at least a 1-meter distance can be maintained inside the room," adding, "Depending on the room size, up to 4 people can be allowed, and if the room is small, users should be reduced by 1 to 3 people to maintain a 1-meter distance."
Regarding the possibility of easing distancing measures in the performing arts sector, he said, "We are continuously aware of requests from various industries and are consulting with associations and organizations," but added, "However, since the third wave of the pandemic is not yet a safe situation, temporarily easing all quarantine measures is risky, and the current trend needs to decline further."
Son stated, "Since last Monday, the eased measures have focused on partially relaxing restrictions on businesses that faced livelihood difficulties due to prolonged gathering bans, and addressing issues between restaurants and cafes where fairness controversies have been continuously raised."
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