COVID-19 Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters Meeting
Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum is presiding over the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH) meeting on COVID-19 response held at the Government Seoul Office Building on the 17th. 2021.9.17 [Photo by Yonhap News]
[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Son Seon-hee] Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum said on the 17th, "With the number of confirmed cases in the metropolitan area approaching 80% daily, I am worried that the 'balloon effect' to non-metropolitan areas might become a reality due to the large-scale movement during the holidays," and added, "If you feel even the slightest abnormality, please be sure to get tested."
On the morning of the same day, Prime Minister Kim chaired the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters meeting at the Government Seoul Office and said, "I hope this Chuseok will be a warm holiday where families and relatives gather together, but I earnestly ask you not to forget even for a moment that the tough battle against COVID-19 is still ongoing." He continued, "We must not repeat the painful experience of nationwide infection spread during the vacation period at the end of July and early August."
Furthermore, he urged, "If you feel any abnormality in your body anytime and anywhere, please visit COVID-19 testing sites installed at nearby public health centers, rest areas, stations, and terminals," and reiterated, "Only with the cooperation of the public can we help small business owners and self-employed people who are currently pushed to their limits."
Prime Minister Kim also addressed each ministry and local government, saying, "During the holiday period, many people will use highway rest areas, airports, and terminals," and requested, "The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, local governments, Korea Expressway Corporation, and related agencies should manage the situation to prevent a sudden influx of people and thoroughly check the implementation of quarantine rules, such as banning eating and drinking inside rest areas."
Regarding the medical staff and public officials who are guarding quarantine sites nationwide, including screening clinics and dedicated hospitals, without rest during the holidays, he expressed, "I sincerely thank you," and asked, "I also ask the public to support those who give up their holidays and work silently to protect our community from COVID-19 and actively cooperate with quarantine measures."
Regarding the progress of vaccination, Prime Minister Kim said, "By today, 70% of the entire population will have completed their first dose," and added, "With the achievement of the first dose target, the government will now accelerate the speed of the second dose vaccination." He also announced, "From today, those waiting for their second dose will also be able to receive vaccination through leftover vaccines, which had previously been allowed only for first-dose recipients."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
