"Average Daily Confirmed Cases Meet Level 2 Social Distancing Criteria"
On the 24th, when the domestic situation of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) showed a gradual decline, medical staff disinfected the windows at a temporary screening clinic set up in the plaza of Seoul Station. The Central Disease Control Headquarters of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency announced that as of midnight, 392 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed, bringing the total to 75,084. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] Ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, when mobility is high, quarantine authorities expressed a cautious stance on easing current "social distancing" measures (Level 2.5 in the metropolitan area, Level 2 in non-metropolitan areas). However, they acknowledged the need to consider adjusting the distancing levels as the daily average number of confirmed cases remains in the 300s.
On the 25th, Kwon Deok-cheol, Minister of Health and Welfare, stated at the "2021 Ministry of Health and Welfare-Food and Drug Safety Ministry-Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency Work Plan" briefing, "The third wave is continuing to decline, and the weekly daily average number of patients is around 370, which corresponds to Level 2 of social distancing. However, since it is winter when the virus is active, and with the possibility of unknown variant virus inflows and the approaching Lunar New Year holiday with high mobility, easing quarantine measures should be carefully reviewed."
He added, "We recognize the need to adjust the levels and are currently listening to opinions from related associations, organizations, local governments, and experts. Especially regarding the ban on private gatherings of five or more people, it has so far had a significant effect in blocking personal contact, but considering the Lunar New Year culture where many families gather, we are contemplating whether to extend this measure."
Regarding the increased fatigue due to the prolonged COVID-19 situation, he explained, "Various experts including WHO believe that even after vaccination begins, social distancing and personal hygiene rules must be maintained. However, considering the national fatigue and fairness among various businesses and industries, we will sufficiently gather opinions and reorganize the distancing system when making changes."
Meanwhile, quarantine authorities have set a goal to introduce more than five COVID-19 vaccines and three treatments this year. Four vaccine contracts have been completed, and one is currently being negotiated. Kim Gang-rip, Commissioner of the Food and Drug Safety Ministry, said, "We aim to approve five types of vaccines. Regarding treatments, along with the first domestic treatment expected to be finalized in early February, there are products currently undergoing clinical trials or in consultation stages at the planning phase, so we believe the stated goals are fully achievable."
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